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WHAT
IT IS: Breast and Cervical
Cancer Control Program (BCCCP) is a service of screening women for these
two types of cancer. Screening includes breast exams, mammograms, pap
smears and pelvic exams. Community education teaches women the importance
of timely screening and to do self-exams.
STATEMENT OF
PURPOSE: The purpose of BCCCP
is to identify breast or cervical cancer when the disease is at an early
stage and therefore, treatable and often curable.
WHO MAY RECEIVE THIS
SERVICE: North Carolina women
ages 50-64 who meet income eligibility may receive this service. Women age
65 and older who do not have Medicaid or Medicare Part B are also
eligible. As well as women who have insurance as long as they meet all
other criteria. Income eligibility is based on 200% of poverty.
HOW THIS PROGRAM IS
CARRIED OUT: BCCCP screening
clinics are scheduled one Saturday a month and limited appointments are
available during the week. If abnormalities are found, patients are
referred for follow-up care. For these women, program funds can pay for
repeat pap smears, diagnostic mammograms, and fine needle biopsies. The
nurse coordinator continues to follow patients to assure that needed
service, education, and support are received.
In addition, all women receive
education on breast self-exam, a crucial part of an all around breast
health program.
HOW
THE COMMUNITY BENEFITS:
Breast or cervical cancer found at early stages saves lives and money.
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