Having an annual screening, a mammogram, could save your life, by detecting breast cancer early.
But some women worry that they can't get a mammogram if they don't have health insurance.
One program shows that you can without sacrificing your health.
Getting an annual checkup has always been important to Polly Pedersen whose mother survived breast cancer.
"She got it an older age so that was really a positive thing. Thankfully it wasn't hereditary. It was something with HRTs and using them for a number of years so it was that kind of scenario."
But Pedersen recently lost her job and her health insurance. Fortunately a local program is now making her annual screenings a possibility.
It's called Mammos and Mocktails- a free breast cancer education and prevention program offered by the Northeast Health Imaging Center and the Cancer Services Program.
Here patients learn how to conduct breast self-exams and are eligible to receive a clinical exam, a mammogram, and a breast ultrasound- all while enjoying these refreshments and goodies.
Michelle Masone of Northeast Health Imaging Center says "it's just a little bit of something to give these patients that are going through some trials and tribulations and don't have health insurance to feel good about themselves and realize that there are people out there that want to help them."
And the help is quick. A radiologist looks at screenings right away ready to make recommendations for additional ultrasounds, MRI's or biopsies.
"We are as facilities performing mammographies are required to send layman's term letter to the patients letting them know that either their mammogram was normal or they need to follow up."
This kind of opportunity gives patients like Pedersen a chance to really focus on things that matter...like her health.
"My concern is people not really taking care of themselves and being responsible for their health and I think that's something people have to have for themselves. You can't really give it to anybody."
Although this event was held earlier this month, these screenings are offered routinely by the Cancer Services Program.
For more information on these screenings, contact your local Cancer Services Program http://www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/cancer/center/partnerships/ or the Northeast Health Imaging Center at 880-6300 or http://www.nehealth.com/Medical_Care/Specialties/Medical_Imaging/Northeast_Health_Imaging_Center/
