Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Breast Care Program Enrollment Now Over 4,000

Since its February launch, Arkansas' BreastCare program has received more than 18,000 calls from women throughout the state and more than 4,000 of those women have been enrolled in the BreastCare program, according to Johnnie Holcomb, chair of the Breast Cancer Control Advisory Board that oversees the BreastCare program.

BreastCare, which was created by the Arkansas General Assembly in 1997, is administered by the Arkansas Department of Health. The program provides education about breast cancer to all Arkansas women and offers free breast cancer screenings, diagnostic and treatment services for women who meet eligibility requirements.

"Since launching the BreastCare program six months ago, we have been pleased with the results," said Holcomb. "Of the 4,000 women who are enrolled, 15 women have had breast cancer diagnosed and are receiving treatment. This program is already saving people's lives."

Holcomb said that an estimated 63,000 Arkansas women between the ages of 40 and 64 are eligible to receive free mammograms under this program. "Our goal is to get information to all Arkansans about the importance of breast care and to let the 63,000 eligible women know that free mammograms are available."

Women who are at least 40, uninsured and have income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level may qualify for the program. Covered services include mammograms and clinical breast exams; medical tests needed to diagnose breast cancer; and treatment such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. The program also helps women identify healthcare providers and mammography facilities where they can receive services and offers educational programs.

To determine eligibility, women are encouraged to call toll-free 1-877-670-2273. When a women calls, trained personnel determine whether she is eligible. If so, an initial mammogram appointment is made for her while she is still on the phone.

If the mammogram is abnormal, the women will receive further diagnostics and treatment for breast cancer. Additionally, if a women who is eligible for the program has already had breast cancer diagnosed, she is eligible for further diagnostics and treatment through BreastCare.

BreastCare also maintains a list of alternate, low-cost community resources and providers for women who are not eligible for the program. All women who call 1-877-670-2273 will be assisted in obtaining the services they need and will receive educational information about breast cancer.

"While breast cancer cannot be prevented, early detection of cancer greatly increases the chances of survival," said Holcomb. "As a breast cancer survivor, I encourage every women to take control of her own health care. They must perform monthly breast self-exams, schedule appointment for their yearly clinical exams and if they are over 40,make annual appointments for mammograms. Thanks to the BreastCare program, women throughout the state now have a resource to help them in their fight against breast cancer."