Well Woman Healthcheck Program
ATTENTION: Due to funding issues, we will be unable to provide screenings until July 1, 2013
Please check the state's Well Woman HealthCheck website for additional resources and where to go for screenings in the meantime.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that women in good health should be annually screened for breast and cervical cancer starting at age 40. Early cancer detection can make all the difference in survival and quality of life.
However, cancer screening procedures, like a mammogram or a pap smear, can be cost prohibitive. Many women who cannot afford to be regularly screened for breast and cervical cancer are at risk for a later detection when the cancer could be more advanced.
The Maricopa County Well Woman Healthcheck Program is part of the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCED) - funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and administered through the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS). The Well woman Healthcheck Program also receives funding from the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Phoenix Affiliate for selective breast cancer services not covered by the NBCCED program.
The Well Woman Healthcheck Program offers breast and cervical cancer screening to qualifying women over the age of 40. Screening services are performed by licensed professional healthcare providers throughout Maricopa County.
A Well Woman Healthcheck breast and cervical cancer screening includes:
(Rollover the term to view a brief definition)
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Annual Well Woman Healthcheck Office Visit
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Clinical Breast ExamA clinical breast exam is an examination by a doctor or nurse, who uses his or her hands to feel for lumps or other changes.
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MammogramA mammogram is an x-ray of the breast. It is the best screening tool widely available to detect breast cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages.
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Pelvic ExamA pelvic exam is a complete physical exam of a woman's pelvic organs by a health professional. A pelvic exam helps a health professional evaluate the size and position of the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.
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Pap SmearThe Pap Test, also called the Pap smear, is a cervical cancer screening test. The test can find abnormal cells in the cervix that may turn into cancer if they are not treated. During the test, the doctor or nurse uses a plastic or metal instrument, called a speculum, to widen the vagina. This helps the doctor or nurse examine the vagina and cervix, and collect a few cells and mucus from the cervix and area around it. These cells are placed on a slide and sent to a laboratory to be checked for abnormal cells.
Eligibility:
- Female
- Maricopa County resident
- At least 40 years of age
- Household income of 101% to 250% of the current FPL (Federal Poverty Level)
- Uninsured (no medical insurance) or
- Underinsured (Medical Insurance does not cover screening mammogram or co pay is over $100)
- Ineligible to apply for AHCCCS or Medicare or similar type of health coverage program
How to Apply
Maricopa County Call 602.506.3000
Outside Maricopa County Call 1.888.257.8502