Mission
To reduce the number of cases and deaths due to breast and cervical cancer, among those with limited access to healthcare.
Eligibility criteria
- Health Insurance status, uninsured - having no health insurance; OR underinsured - having health insurance but the co-pay, deductible or out of pocket expense associated with the breast/cervical screening/follow-up care is unaffordable and has created a barrier to care
- Income level - less than 250% of Federal Poverty Level Click here to view the income levels
- Residency - must be a Rhode Island resident
Provide screening and diagnostic services to eligible women in various age groups:
Click here to view the eligible age guidelines for screenings.
- Age 21 – 29 can receive
- Cervical cancer screening (Pap test alone every three years);
- Breast cancer screening (clinical breast exam, only if performed in conjunction with Pap test);
- Diagnostic services and follow-up, if an abnormality is found in a screening test.
- Age 30 – 39 can receive
- Cervical cancer screening (Pap test alone every three years, OR high-risk HPV test alone every 5 years, OR Pap and high-risk HPV test together every 5 years);
- Breast cancer screening (clinical breast exam, only if performed in conjunction with Pap test);
- Diagnostic services and follow-up, if an abnormality is found in a screening test.
- Age 40 – 64 can receive
- Cervical cancer screening (Pap test alone every three years, OR high-risk HPV test alone every 5 years, OR Pap and high-risk HPV test together every 5 years);
- Breast cancer screening (mammogram and clinical breast exam every year);
- Diagnostic services and follow-up, if an abnormality is found in a screening test.
- Age 65 can receive
- Not eligible for program services. Exception: Individuals without Medicare Part B and undocumented residents are eligible for all program services.
- Any age
- People with symptoms suspicious for breast cancer, OR, and abnormal finding on a clinical breast exam are eligible for breast services including diagnostic follow-up.
- Individuals at high-risk for breast cancer
- People who are determined to be at high-risk for breast cancer can be screened with both an annual mammogram and an annual breast MRI.
Refer to treatment if needed
As an extension of the Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening program, a person who is uninsured may apply for Medical Assistance (Medicaid) through the program to cover the cost of treatment for a precancerous condition of the breast/cervix or a diagnosis of breast of cervical cancer. In order to qualify for Medical Assistance through this program, an individual must: Meet the eligibility requirements of enrollment into the Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program AND
- Be a US citizen (and show proof - U.S. Passport or U.S. Birth Certificate) or be a qualified immigrant for a minimum of five years (must provide copy of a permanent resident alien card). Please note: a working VISA or a copy of a social security card is not considered proof of permanent resident alien status; and
- Show proof of Rhode Island residency (driver's license, utility bill, etc.); and
- Have no other individual or group insurance. Please note: People age 65 and older are not eligible for Medical Assistance through the Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program.