BCCS: Questions & Answers
Eligibility
What if I have health insurance?
If you have health insurance, contact your insurance company to find out if you have coverage for breast and cervical cancer screening.
What if I have insurance, but it doesn’t cover mammograms or Pap tests?
If your health insurance does not fully cover screening and diagnostic services, you may be considered underinsured. Use the “Find a BCCS Provider” tool on the right to find a BCCS provider near you.
What if I have Medicaid?
If you have Medicaid, call the Managed Care Organization (MCO) phone number on the back of your Medicaid card for information on how to get breast or cervical cancer screening services. If you do not have your Medicaid card, you may call 2-1-1.
How will I know if I can receive BCCS services?
The staff at a BCCS clinic will help determine your eligibility. They may be able to confirm your eligibility the same day and schedule you an appointment for services. Go to BCCS: Who Can Apply for more information on program eligibility.
Use the “Find a BCCS Provider” tool on the right to find a BCCS provider near you. Call the provider’s office to make an appointment and the staff will help you apply for the BCCS program.
How long will I get services?
You will be screened every year for BCCS eligibility and services will continue if you meet program eligibility requirements. Go to BCCS: Who Can Apply for more information on program eligibility.
General
How much will I pay?
BCCS services are provided at no cost to you.
When should I start getting screened for breast cancer?
Women with average risk of breast cancer should get a mammogram every two years starting at age 40. Go to Screening for Breast Cancer to learn more about breast cancer screening.
When should I start getting screened for cervical cancer?
You should get Pap tests starting at age 21. Go to Screening for Cervical Cancer to learn more about when and how often you should get cervical cancer screening.
What if I am diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer?
If you have been diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer and don’t have health insurance that will pay for your treatment, you may be able to receive Medicaid for Breast and Cervical Cancer (MBCC).
Only BCCS providers can submit MBCC applications. Use the “Find a BCCS Provider” search tool on this page to find a provider in your area that provides MBCC application assistance. For more information about MBCC, visit Medicaid for Breast and Cervical Cancer Program.
What if my BCCS provider finds a health issue that isn't covered?
The BCCS program pays for the services listed under BCCS: Benefits. If your BCCS provider finds another health issue, you will be referred to another provider or transferred to another program that can provide the care needed. You might have to pay for these services, or you might be able to get free or low-cost treatment. To find a clinic that offers additional healthcare, you can:
- Visit the Family and Community Health Services Clinic Locator.
- Look at Other Benefits that you might qualify for.
- Talk about options for care with your healthcare provider.
What if I have more questions?
Please call 2-1-1 or 512-776-7796 if you need assistance.