Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about AICF's Mammogram BusQ: Who is eligible for our breast cancer screening program?
· Woman age 40 - 79 · Currently living in New York City · No Mammogram in the past 12 months Q: I do not have health insurance. Can I still screen for breast cancer? Yes, if you meet the eligibility above you can screen on our Mammogram Bus. There will be no cost to you. We can also help you enroll in the New York State Cancer Services Program (CSP), which covers the cost of the screening and follow-up services . *If you are currently in the process of enrolling in a New York State of health insurance plan we ask that you schedule your appointment after you receive confirmation. Q: Does my current immigration status affect my eligibility for screening? Your immigration status does not affect your eligibility for screening. Q: If this is a “free” screening program, why do you need my health insurance card?
We are a “no-cost” program, which means that we will cover the cost of your co-pay and deductible. Your health insurance will be billed for the cost of the visit, but you will pay nothing. We do this to remain cost-effective so that we can screen as many women as possible. All health insurance is accepted. Q: I am under 40 years old. Can I get screened too? No, if you are under the age of 40 and are experiencing symptoms contact your doctor for an appropriate referral. If you don’t have a doctor please call us and we will help you find a medical facility that can assist you. For referral, please call us at 1-877-628-9090. Q: I have breast implants. Can I get screened too? No, it is medically recommended for women with breast implants to screen at a stand-alone facility that has other screening options. If you don’t have a doctor please call us and we will help you find a medical facility that can assist you. For referral, please call us at 1-877-628-9090. |
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Q: At what age should I stop getting mammograms?
· Mammograms should be continued regardless of a women’s age as long yours health permits. According to the American Cancer Society, age alone should not be a reason to stop having annual mammograms. Consult with your doctor about when to stop screening.
· If you have a chronic or serious health issue please consult your doctor before scheduling your next screening appointment.
· If you are over the age of 79, it is medically recommended you speak to your doctor to determine frequency of screening.
Q: How do I make an appointment?
Call us at 1-877-628-9090 and we will be happy to find a time and date for a screening that works for you.
· Mammograms should be continued regardless of a women’s age as long yours health permits. According to the American Cancer Society, age alone should not be a reason to stop having annual mammograms. Consult with your doctor about when to stop screening.
· If you have a chronic or serious health issue please consult your doctor before scheduling your next screening appointment.
· If you are over the age of 79, it is medically recommended you speak to your doctor to determine frequency of screening.
Q: How do I make an appointment?
Call us at 1-877-628-9090 and we will be happy to find a time and date for a screening that works for you.
Q: I cannot make it to my appointment, what should I do?
Please call our office at 1-877-628-9090 and we will work with you to find another date or time that’s convenient for you.
Q: I did not make an appointment. Can I still screen for breast cancer?
Walk-ins are always welcome on our Mammogram Bus. Please keep in mind that patients with appointments have priority over walk-in patients.
Q: What am I expected to bring with me?
Please bring your current health insurance card (if you have insurance).
Please call our office at 1-877-628-9090 and we will work with you to find another date or time that’s convenient for you.
Q: I did not make an appointment. Can I still screen for breast cancer?
Walk-ins are always welcome on our Mammogram Bus. Please keep in mind that patients with appointments have priority over walk-in patients.
Q: What am I expected to bring with me?
Please bring your current health insurance card (if you have insurance).
Q: I was told not to wear deodorants, perfumes, powders, or lotion when I come for my screening. Why not?
Deodorants, perfumes, powders, and lotions often have a small amount of metals which can interfere with the scan and makes it difficult to analyze the results.
Deodorants, perfumes, powders, and lotions often have a small amount of metals which can interfere with the scan and makes it difficult to analyze the results.
