Co-written by Gin Crane
October is "Breast Cancer Awareness" month; however you should not wait until October to discuss testing options. Early detection is important in the fight against breast cancer. For uninsured and under-served patients, this may seem like a problem. 1 out of every 8 women will develop breast cancer and surprisingly 1 out of 1000 men will develop breast cancer as well. Breast cancer is most common in African Americans, however all Americans are affected.
The #DocsForHer campaign was inspired by an article written by a physician and medical journalist, Dr. Amber Robins entitled Breast Cancer Awareness Is Not Enough.
Dr. Amber Robins, Dr. Nwando Okafor, Dr. KaNisha Hall, and Dr. Kim Jackson, are physicians who are dedicated to helping their uninsured patients understand the crucial nature around "not" getting tested. #DocsForHer aims to drive low income patients to seek the assistance of free to low cost breast cancer screenings.
Dr. Amber Robins, Family Medicine Physician and Medical Journalist
Roughly 44 million Americans are uninsured, while possibly 32 million are insured but their healthcare is adequate. The cost of a mammogram can range between $75 - $250 depending on the provider of the service. Not everyone can afford to be screened or they lack the necessary insurance coverage for the screening which causes them to delay testing or not get tested at all. The good news is that there are more options available.
During the month of October in support of breast cancer awareness, several medical facilities offer free screening to the insured. Patients can discuss options with their family physician or local hospitals to gain a calendar of screening events. Also, the Susan G. Komen Foundation, as well as The National Breast Cancer Foundation, have partnered with several medical facilities around the country to provide uninsured patients with free breast cancer screening.
Your local and state government may also provide programs that help with cost of mammograms. These physicians are devoted to helping their patients understand the importance of proactive self-care and breast cancer prevention. Women and men are urged to inquire about free breast cancer screenings. You can also apply for Medicare or Medicaid in your state to help cover the cost of exams.
Early detection is key. The lack of insurance should not become a matter of life or death. Help is out there ready and available to help prevent and fight breast cancer. Our featured #DocsForHer extend their message to everyone. If you lack healthcare resources, take the life saving action to find a screening assistance program in your area.