More than 500 North Dakotans are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. In recognition of breast cancer awareness month, North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) reminds women that early detection and screening saves lives, and Women’s Way may provide a way to pay for breast cancer screenings for eligible North Dakotans.
Women’s Way is North Dakota’s breast and cervical cancer early detection program. It is available in all counties and serves both uninsured women and those who have health insurance, but still struggle with the out-of-pocket cost of mammograms, deductibles and co-payments. One in 17 women in North Dakota may be eligible. Over the past 27 years, Women’s Way has served just over 18,000 North Dakotans.
North Dakota residents ages 40-64 who meets income guidelines may qualify. Individuals ages 21-39 who have breast cancer symptoms, are at high risk for breast cancer or are due for or need breast or cervical cancer diagnostic procedures and have qualifying incomes may also be eligible. See details at hhs.nd.gov/womensway.
Women’s Way can pay for office visits for breast and/or cervical cancer screenings, a yearly mammogram, and Pap and HPV tests as recommended per the United States Preventative Service Task Force cervical cancer screening guidelines. Other breast and cervical cancer diagnostic tests may be covered too.
To enroll in Women’s Way, visit hhs.nd.gov/womensway and click “are you eligible” or call a Women’s Way local coordinator at 800-449-6636, 711 (TTY).
More than 850 physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants are enrolled as participating providers. This makes it possible for most clients to receive services through their regular providers at over 300 facilities across the state. Individuals should talk to their health care provider about their breast cancer risk factors and how often to have a mammogram.
While there is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, which occurs in both men and women, individuals can reduce the risk of breast cancer by:
- limiting alcohol consumption,
- quitting smoking or tobacco use,
- maintaining a healthy weight,
- staying physically active,
- eating a balanced diet, and
- limiting the dose and duration of combined hormone replacement therapy.
To learn more about reducing the risk of cancer, visit hhs.nd.gov/health/women/womens-way/tips-reduce-your-risk.