Breast Cancer Screenings
What is a breast cancer screening? A breast cancer screening is a test that looks for early signs of cancer in breast tissue. Finding cancer early can help make treatment more effective and less invasive.
Who should get screened?
Women with average risk, 40 to 74: Many healthcare providers recommend a screening mammogram every two years.
Women at higher risk: If you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, your doctor may recommend starting screenings earlier or having additional tests.
Types of breast cancer screenings
Mammograms
This is a specialized low dose x-ray imaging technique to see the inside the breasts and helps find small signs of cancer before you feel any changes.
Ultrasound and MRIs
Sometimes, your provider may also use ultrasound or MRI tests to take a closer look if needed.
What to expect during a breast cancer screening
Mammogram: During a mammogram, the breast is pressed between two plates to spread out the tissue. This helps get a clearer X-ray picture and lowers the amount of radiation needed.
Additional tests: Follow-up tests may be needed if anything out of the ordinary is found.
FAQ: Breast cancer screening
Understanding your results
Normal: Nothing out of the ordinary was found. Continue with recommended screening exams.
Abnormal: Mammography can find different problems in the breast. These problems might include small calcium deposits, lumps, or changes in the breast tissue. Calcium deposits can sometimes be an early sign of breast cancer or other issues. Lumps can be either non-cancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant). Changes in breast tissue night mean there are abnormalities. Your provider will talk about any findings with you and discuss next steps.
How much will it cost?
Most health plans, including yours, cover breast cancer screenings at no extra cost when you visit an in-network provider. Check your benefits to see what is included.
Preventive versus diagnostic: what’s the difference?
Preventive screenings are done when you have no symptoms but are of a certain age. They are always fully covered.
Diagnostic mammograms are used when there are breast symptoms like a lump, nipple discharge, or breast pain, or if a screening mammogram shows something unusual. It gives more detailed images to look closer at the area of concern.
Please discuss all diagnostic tests with your provider, as you may be required to pay a share of these costs. Also, verify that your provider's imaging center of choice is in network to avoid additional costs.
Establish care with a primary care provider
A primary care provider (PCP) who knows you well is vital to staying healthy. PCPs know your health history and can guide you on your healthcare journey.
You get the lowest cost shares for your care when you see your assigned primary care provider. View or change your assigned primary care provider (PCP) by logging in to your account or by calling customer service.