Feb. 21, 2024 By Iryna Shkurhan
Queens Councilwoman Vickie Paladino is leading an initiative to offer free mammogram screenings for breast cancer this March, ensuring access to this crucial health service.
Paladino, who represents Whitestone, College Point, Bayside, Little Neck, Douglaston and parts of North Flushing, is offering the free service to her constituents on Mar. 1st.
A mobile mammography bus, which is equipped with x-ray machinery to bring the service to women who may not have access to a practitioner, is provided by the American-Italian Cancer Foundation. The dedicated bus travels across the five boroughs, providing free mammograms and breast exams to medically underserved women.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women worldwide, and the leading cause of cancer death for women, according to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. While white women are slightly more likely to receive a breast cancer diagnosis than women of other races, Black women are significantly more likely to die from the disease.
The bus is equipped with x-ray technology to offer the same breast cancer screening services as medical offices. Photo by Iryna Shkurhan
“I encourage everyone to sign up,” said Paladino in an email newsletter to constituents. “This is an essential health service and I’m so proud to provide it to my constituents at no cost.”
To be eligible for the service, women must be between the ages of 40-79, live in the five boroughs and have not had a mammogram screening in the past 12 months. Insurance is not required, but it will be billed for services if proof of coverage is shown. Patients will not be charged a copay or deductible.
The bus will be parked outside the council member’s office at 20-15 Francis Lewis Blvd. on Mar. 1 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. To make an appointment, those who meet the eligibility criteria can call 718 619-8611.
In the past, slots filled up quickly, but walk-ins are welcome should there be available space.