Free Mammograms Fargo, North Dakota

Your Comprehensive Guide to Free Mammograms in Fargo, North Dakota

Early diagnosis increases the chances of successfully treating breast cancer. Mammography is the standard diagnostic tool for detecting breast cancer. However, many women lack sufficient coverage or resources to pay for mammograms. For women in Fargo, North Dakota, there are a few options to get free mammograms.

Government Options for Free Mammograms

The North Dakota Department of Health operates the Women's Way program, aimed at providing free breast and cervical cancer screening to women who meet certain qualifications. To qualify for the Women's Way program, one must be a resident of North Dakota, be aged between 40 and 64, and meet certain income criteria.

Women's Way covers the cost of a mammogram and clinical breast examination. If needed, it also covers diagnostic testing such as ultrasonography, biopsy, and consultation with a provider. Women who are diagnosed with cancer through the Women's Way program are eligible for Medicaid coverage for their treatment.

Non-Government/Non-Profit Options

There are several non-profit organizations that offer free mammograms to women in need.

The American Cancer Society, for example, partners with medical providers and health systems across the country to offer free mammograms and breast cancer screenings to underinsured and uninsured women through their partnerships. In Fargo, Sanford Health and Essentia Health are the medical providers partnering with the American Cancer Society.

The Susan G. Komen Great Plains also frequently provides free mobile mammography screenings across the Dakotas, and sometimes travels to Fargo. Abound Health (formerly Family HealthCare) in Fargo periodically hosts these mobile clinics. Check their websites or call the hotline for the next schedule.

City-Specific Breast Cancer Data

According to the North Dakota Cancer Registry, Cass County, where Fargo is located, has a slightly higher rate of breast cancer compared to the average for the entire state. With an incidence rate of 128.6 per 100,000 women compared to 123.4 statewide, it is critical for Fargo women to access regular screenings, especially if they are aged 40 and above.

How to Get Screened in Fargo

Here are the steps to get a free mammogram if you live in Fargo:

1. Check if you qualify for the Women's Way program. The North Dakota Department of Health website has a full list of qualifications.
2. If you qualify, contact the Women's Way program. They will connect you with a local provider who can perform a mammogram at no cost to you.
3. If you do not qualify, check with local medical providers such as Sanford Health or Essentia Health if they are hosting an American Cancer Society program or check the Susan G. Komen Great Plains website for the mobile mammography clinic schedule. Your local medical facility might have information as well.

In conclusion, proactive screenings are a potential life-saving measure for women, especially those living in areas with higher rates of breast cancer like Fargo. Thankfully, there are several resources in Fargo, North Dakota, where women can access these free screenings, and you are encouraged to take full advantage of them.