Mobile mammogram unit offers free breast cancer screenings in Lexington this week
LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – The Kentucky Primary Care Association (KPCA) and UnitedHealthcare are continuing their partnership to bring free breast cancer screenings to communities across the state — and this week, the mobile mammogram unit is in Lexington.
The mobile unit has been traveling throughout Kentucky, providing free screenings to around 200 people so far. KPCA CEO Molly Lewis said both organizations are committed to ensuring women have access to early detection and preventive care.
“Both United and KPCA, through our members, have a vested interest in helping women have their breast cancer screenings and early detection of cancer,” Lewis said.
Originally planned only for October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the program has been extended due to growing demand. On Tuesday, the mobile unit visited the Bluegrass Community Health Center on North Eagle Creek Drive.
“A lot of our patients struggle with transportation and scheduling issues,” said Rhonda Mullins, COO of Bluegrass Community Health Center. “So being able to bring the van here and have patients walk in or schedule appointments has been great.”
Health officials recommend mammograms beginning at age 40, or earlier for those with a strong family history of breast cancer. They emphasize the importance of preventive screenings like mammograms, colonoscopies, and pap smears for early detection and improved survival rates.
To receive a mammogram through the mobile unit, participants must have a doctor’s referral, be free of current breast health issues, and not have had a mammogram within the past year.
The unit will be at the HealthFirst Bluegrass Community Health Center on Southland Drive from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday.
