How often do I need to get screened?

Breast Cancer Screening

The American Cancer Society recommends that women begin having mammograms annually starting at age 40. A clinical breast exam should be part of a woman’s periodic health examination, about every three years for women in their 20s and 30s and annually for women 40 and older. Women should report any breast change promptly to the healthcare provider. Breast self-exam is an option for women starting in their 20s.

Women's Way covers payment for program enrolled women ages 40 through 64 for:

• Annual clinical breast examinations by a healthcare provider.

• Annual screening mammograms

Cervical Cancer Screening

The American Cancer Society recommends that cervical cancer screening should begin three years after a woman begins having vaginal intercourse, but no later than 21 years of age. Screening should be done every year with regular Pap tests or every two years using liquid-based Pap tests. At or after age 30, women who have had three normal tests in a row may get screened every two to three years. However, healthcare providers may suggest a woman get screened more often if she has certain risk factors such as HIV infection or a weakened immune system. Women 70 and older who have had three or more consecutive normal Pap tests and no abnormal results in the last 10 years may choose to stop cervical cancer screening.

Women's Way covers payment for program enrolled women ages 40 through 64 for:

Conventional Pap test • Annually until a Women's Way client has had three consecutive normal Pap tests documented within a 60-month period, then reimbursed screening interval will increase to once every three years.

Liquid-based cytology • Once every two years until a Women's Way client has had three consecutive normal Pap tests documented within a 60-month period, then reimbursed screening interval will increase to once every three years. Post total hysterectomy • If hysterectomy was due to cervical neoplasia or invasive cervical cancer, continue to screen per guidelines above. Abnormal Pap test results • Women's Way will reimburse for repeat Pap tests needed for follow up of abnormal Pap test results.

If you have any questions, please contact the Women's Way state office at 800.280.5512  or 701.328.2333.