Breast and Cervical Cancer

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the United States and Georgia. Detecting it early is crucial because it increases the chances of successful treatment and longer survival. Georgia has seen a decrease in cervical cancer cases due to preventive measures like early detection of pre-cancerous abnormalities and HPV vaccination.

If you need assistance, the Southwest Health District offers screenings for breast and cervical cancer, diagnostic services, and referrals for treatment to uninsured and underinsured women in the area.

Services

Services provided by the Georgia Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (BCCP) include:

  • Clinical Breast Examination
  • Mammogram
  • Pelvic Examination
  • Pap test
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) test
  • Diagnostic testing of abnormal results
  • Referrals to treatment through the Women’s Health Medicaid Program

Women diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer through the program, or referred to the program by a physician, may be eligible for treatment through Medicaid coverage as authorized by the Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment and Prevention Act passed by Congress in 2000.

Eligibility

Uninsured or underinsured Georgia residents under 200 percent of the federal poverty level may be eligible.  Cervical cancer screening is available to women 21 to 64 and breast cancer screening is available to women between the ages of 40 and 64. Individuals under 18 may also be eligible for free or low-cost HPV vaccination. To find out if you are eligible and to access services, please call your local health department.

Presumptive Eligibility (PE) for Women with Breast or Cervical Cancer

Women’s Health Medicaid is a program that pays for cancer treatments for women who have been diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer and cannot afford to pay for treatment. Any woman who has been diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer may apply for Presumptive Eligibility Women’s Health Medicaid in their local health department.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for PE Women’s Health Medicaid, an applicant must meet the following criteria:

  1. You must be under 65 years of age.
  2. You must be a U.S. citizen or a lawfully admitted immigrant.
  3. You must be currently residing in Georgia.
  4. You must have breast or cervical cancer. This may include precancerous conditions of the breast or cervix.
  5. You may not have existing health insurance that pays for cancer treatments. Additionally, you may not be currently receiving Medicaid or Medicare.

Additional Resources