Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program

What is the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program?

The Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program offers eligible women free mammograms, breast exams, pelvic exams, and Pap tests. Even if a woman has already been diagnosed with cancer, she may receive free treatment through this program if she qualifies. No income requirements apply. This program has provided breast and cervical screenings to women in Illinois since 1995.

Why are regular screenings so important?

Except for skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women. However, if it is detected while still in the earlier stages, breast cancer can be successfully treated. Routine mammograms and breast exams can detect cancer early and provide better treatment options and results.
The most important thing you can do to help prevent cervical cancer is to get two doses of the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine early (children ages 11-12, which can be given at the Health Department through the Infectious Disease/Immunization program) and have regular screenings (Pap and HPV tests). These tests can identify any abnormal changes that could develop into cancer.

If a woman is not enrolled in the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program but has been diagnosed with cancer, can she still receive free treatment?

Yes, women who meet the IBCCP eligibility requirements but are diagnosed outside of the current IBCCP sites can receive the same coverage through IBCCP. This gives women more choices and also avoids penalizing women who did not know about the program but who are screened and diagnosed by their doctor, community health center, or other health care facility.

Am I eligible for free screening through the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program?

You may be able to receive free services if you are a woman:

• Living in Illinois
• With or without insurance that doesn’t cover breast and cervical screening.
• Ages 21 – 64 years old (Younger women may be eligible in some cases).
• No income requirement.

Contact Karri Williams at Rock Island County Health Department for more information: 309-558-2906.