Right now, there are more than 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States alone, according to the American Cancer Society.
For some families it’s grandma, for others it’s mom, sister, or aunty. In most families, it’s someone very loved who never expected it would be them. What do those surviving breast cancer have in common? They each took important steps to look after their health by getting screened. You can too!
When breast cancer is found and treated early, those diagnosed with it have a better chance to stay healthy longer, and more options for treatment. Mammograms, a type of x-ray, can help find breast cancer early, before symptoms start.
How much do mammograms cost?
If you’re over age 40 and have health insurance, the cost for a recommended preventive mammogram is usually covered with no copays or coinsurance, so there is no cost ($0) to you. Check with your health plan before you go.
Are you a CHPW member? Preventive care is covered at no cost to you, including recommended preventive mammograms. You may also be eligible to earn gift card rewards when you complete a mammogram each year.
When do I start, and how often do I get breast cancer screenings?
Busy days, weeks, and months can make years pass by quickly. Starting routine breast screenings as early as you can, may add years to your life.
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women who are 40 to 74 years old, and are at average risk for breast cancer, get a mammogram every 2 years. Your doctor may recommend you get screened every year based on your health history.
It’s normal to be nervous about cancer screenings, but there is no need to be nervous about talking to your doctor. Your doctor is here to answer your questions and support you in making the best health choices for you. The more open you can be with them, the more they can help. And remember, the earlier you catch signs of a health condition, the more options you have for treatment.
– Dr. Demeteria M, CHPW Chief Medical Officer & Chief Health Officer
First mammogram?
Talk to your doctor or schedule a checkup at your local clinic. Work with them to schedule your mammogram if they recommend it. Your doctor will look at your age, medical and family history, and other factors to help decide when to start getting mammograms and how often.
Watch this short video about what to expect:
Know you’re due for a mammogram soon?
Call your local in-network mammogram provider to schedule your appointment. Or search online for “mammogram events near me”. Many events are held throughout Washington State. Some offer free mammograms even if you don’t have health insurance.
Before you attend a mammogram event, call your health plan to make sure the provider is in-network.
Breast cancer can grow quickly and spread to other parts of the body. Protect your health (and give yourself a little peace of mind) by scheduling your recommended screenings.
People often want to know:
How do mammograms work?
A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray that takes a picture of the breast to look for signs of cancer. It can find lumps that are too small for you or your provider to feel.
Know, when you make your appointment, it’s ok to request to have a doctor or technician with the gender that’s most comfortable for you.
Does it hurt?
While the test can be uncomfortable and may be painful for some people, they are short, and the discomfort should be brief. If you are in pain during the test, let your technician know. You can also ask for a break.
How long does it take?
The test is quick. The appointment is typically 30 minutes, and the test usually lasts less than 20 minutes. And after your mammogram, you’ll be able to get back to your usual activities right away.
How to prepare for a mammogram
Before: How to prepare
- Avoid using deodorant, powder, or lotions on the day of the mammogram.
- If you think you might be pregnant, let your doctor and technician know.
After: When do I get my results?
You should get your results within 10 days after the mammogram. Your results will come sooner if additional imaging is needed or if potential signs of cancer are found.
Resources to help you complete important screenings
Finding a ride, a mammogram provider nearby, or childcare at the time of your appointment, are all obstacles many people face. Here are a few resources that may help:
- Free rides to medical appointments: If you’re eligible for Apple Health (Medicaid), the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) helps you find free transportation when you need it.
- Pop-up mammogram events: Fred Hutch Cancer Center hosts mammogram events in Washington State through summer. Search for mammogram events
- Childcare: Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) helps families pay for childcare while parents are at medical appointments. Read about WCCC eligibility
Remember, the earlier breast cancer is detected the more options you have for treatment, and a better chance of successfully treating it.
Hug a woman in your life, schedule your routine mammogram, and then remind them to schedule theirs too! Life is too precious to wait.
Learn more
- CHPW MemberFirst™ Rewards for preventive screenings:
Medicare Advantage | Apple Health (Medicaid) | Individual & Family Cascade Select
From our partners at Healthwise
- Learn the basics about breast cancer screenings
- Find out more about breast cancer: what it is, the symptoms, and how it’s diagnosed