Chicago, IL - PCC Community Wellness Center (PCC), a lead agency for the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP) by the State of Illinois is continuing to provide access to free screening and diagnostic tests for breast and cervical cancer to eligible patients at all PCC locations. PCC was pleased to receive another year of IBCCP funding from the Illinois Department of Public Health in the amount of $205,177.

Funds will support free mammograms, pelvic exams, and cervical cancer screenings for uninsured women who qualify for the program. “This is a lifesaving program for our community because it provides free screening services to uninsured women who may not have access to these services,” said Fernando Salgado, Manager of PCC’s IBCCP Program.

The IBCCP Program made Illinois the first state in the nation to provide access for screening or diagnostic tests for breast and cervical cancer to all uninsured women. Uninsured women between the ages of 40 and 64 qualify for mammograms and breast exams, and uninsured women between 35 and 64 qualify for pelvic exams and Pap tests. On a case-by-case basis, younger, symptomatic women who meet the guidelines are considered for the program and could receive screenings free of charge. Mammography services will be referred to the Breast Care Center at River Forest Medical Campus, located in River Forest.

Patients who are enrolled in IBCCP are never expected to pay a co-pay when they are seen for an IBCCP visit. When eligible, they are also enrolled in the sliding scale in order to receive any non-IBCCP services at a discounted price. For information about qualifications for services, contact Fernando Salgado, IBCCP Manager at 708-386-0845 Ext. 1062.