Affordable Mammograms
A yearly mammogram is important because it is the best way to detect cancer early, while it is most treatable. If you don’t have insurance or are underinsured, MyMichigan Health has options to assist you.
Insurance
If you have any of these insurances, you may have coverage for all or part of the cost of a mammogram.
Commercial Insurance
More and more commercial insurances are covering 3D Mammography/Tomosynthesis as a benefit. Contact your employer or insurance provider to determine your eligibility. If you find that your benefits are limited, or you still can’t afford the co-pay or deductible, refer to the “Special Programs for Uninsured and Underinsured Women” section below.
Medicare
Medicare now covers the cost of annual screening mammography for women age 40 and older. In addition, Medicare waives the deductible for screening mammograms, although the standard co-pay still applies. If you have secondary insurance, this additional coverage may cover the co-pay.
Medicare is a government program that helps to cover the cost of medical care for senior citizens and those with certain disabilities. For more information, call (800) 633-4227 (800-MEDICARE) or your local Social Security office.
Medicaid
Most Medicaid programs cover screening mammograms once a year for women age 40 and older. Check with your caseworker to determine your eligibility.
Medicaid is a government program that helps to cover the cost of medical care for both the employed and unemployed. If you have low income or your resources have become limited, the State of Michigan offers many different Medicaid programs. Eligibility for these programs varies. To determine eligibility, an application is processed. Call your local Department of Human Services for more information.
Veteran's Benefits
If you are a veteran or the family member of a veteran, you may qualify for government benefits. Call the Department of Veteran’s Affairs at (202) 273-5400 or toll-free at (800) 827-1000.
Special Programs for Uninsured and Underinsured Women
There are programs available to help if you don’t have insurance, if your insurance doesn’t cover mammography, or if you cannot afford the co-pay or deductible.
BC3NP Program
Uninsured and underinsured women between the ages of 40 and 64 may be eligible for a mammogram and other services through the Breast & Cervical Cancer Control Navigation Program (BC3NP). This federal program provides a clinical breast exam, mammogram, an optional pelvic exam, and pap smear at no charge on an annual basis to those who qualify. Recent legislation mandates that if a woman qualifies for her annual screening under BC3NP, then she would also qualify for Medicaid insurance if breast cancer were found as a result of the screening. Note that participants in the BC3NP must re-apply to the program every year at Michigan Health & Human Services, BC3NP.
To schedule your screening or see if you qualify for this program, contact your local health department. To locate a Health Department near you, search Michigan Health & Human Services, local Health Department maps.
Mammography Fund
MyMichigan Health has special funds available to help women and men with the cost of a mammogram. These funds have been made possible through the generous donations of patients and community members. For those who qualify, the fund will cover a significant portion of the cost of mammography although some fees may not be covered. Eligibility is limited to the type of breast imaging service and location with approval from a Breast Health Coordinator. This is a one-time approval per service.
To learn more about MyMichigan Health programs, which program my assist you, and how to apply, please call the MyMichigan Breast Health Coordinator at (989) 837-9054 or e-mail an inquiry to breast.health@mymichigan.org.
How to Schedule Your Mammogram
- Get a mammogram order from your provider. If you need assistance finding a provider, contact the MyMichigan Health Line at (989) 837-9090 or toll-free at (800) 999-3199.
- Call MyMichigan Health scheduling at (989) 633-5252 or toll-free (888) 367-2778. In Sault Ste. Marie, call (906) 635-4439.
- Self-schedule online through the MyChart Patient Portal, visit my.mymichigan.net.