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Q. I would like to get a cancer screening. I need help financially and where to find screenings.

A.

There are many benefits to screening for cancer. Early detection is key to improving outcomes if a cancer is diagnosed. There are several recommended cancer screenings, including: breast, cervical, colon, lung, prostate, and skin, depending on an individual’s risk factors. It is important to ask your doctor about which screening is right for you. Many times, insurance companies will cover these recommended screenings if you are eligible to receive them. If someone is uninsured or underinsured, there may be options for assistance. Free or low cost screenings can be found in several ways.

  • First, ask your doctor if they have any services or programs in the community
  • The Department of Health provides free cancer screenings. Check your state’s location and program
  • The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), provides information on screening and access to care

Additionally, CancerCare offers a Time To Screen line at 855-537-2733 where you can talk to one of our specialists about screening information.

Q. Are there any resources to assist someone who is uninsured in getting a colonoscopy?

A.

If you or someone you know is uninsured, there may be free or low cost options to help you access a colonoscopy. It can definitely feel overwhelming to access this care and worry about the financial cost or other barriers. Below are some options to contact for a free colonoscopy:

  • The Colorectal Cancer Alliance provides resources to access free screenings and financial assistance for those that are eligible
  • In some states, the Department of Health provides free screenings, including colonoscopies
  • Your health care team may know about possible resources or programs in your area

Additionally, CancerCare offers a Time To Screen line at 855-537-2733 where you can talk to one of our specialists about screening information. Our free publication Colorectal Cancer: The Importance of Screening and Early Detection can also help answer questions about this test.

Q. I just got my screening MRI and my PSA is rising slowly for 3 years from 4.0 to 5.1. The MRI indicates a level 4 lesion well defined with no infiltration. I have an MRI fusion targeted biopsy scheduled in late May. Is the waiting period for this lesion appropriate? I'm being seen at a university hospital and clinics by a urologist.

A.

It is always a good idea to be proactive in your health. Although it is typical to follow up with a biopsy following these results, the time frame to schedule it may vary based on other factors. It is not uncommon to feel concerned or anxious waiting for these tests. In order to feel more confident with these decisions, we always suggest speaking with your doctor about how these choices are made. When possible, a second opinion may also make you feel comfortable with your care. Below are some questions to help guide these conversations:

  • What is the purpose of this biopsy?

  • What is the typical follow up for these screening results?

  • How was the timing of this biopsy decided? Can it be scheduled sooner?

  • How will the results be discussed with me?

The Prostate Cancer Foundation has a list of additional questions on PSA screening and biopsy.

CancerCare offers a Time To Screen line at 855-537-2733 where you can talk to one of our specialists about screening.

Ask a Question

Do you have a question regarding Cancer Screening? We invite you to use the space below to Ask CancerCare®. If you have questions about any other topic, please email info@cancercare.org. Please note that we are unable to respond to specific medical questions as we are a staff of professional oncology social workers.

Questions are submitted anonymously, and responses to selected questions will be posted on this page. Please note that not all questions can be answered, but if you would like to be contacted regarding your specific question, please submit your name and email address.


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