Ortiz Highlights Access to Free Breast Cancer Screenings for Illinois Women

CHICAGO – Committed to ensuring all women have access to comprehensive health care services, state Rep. Aaron Ortiz, D-Chicago, is highlighting the Breast Cancer and Cervical Cancer Program, which provides uninsured women free screenings and treatment. 

“Women of color are disproportionately affected by both breast and cervical cancer as a result of barriers to care,” Ortiz said. “With Breast Cancer Awareness Month upon us, I want to draw attention to crucial state services that ensure women in communities like the ones I represent have access to comprehensive health care.”

The Breast Cancer and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP) is operated by Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), providing eligible women free breast exams and mammograms, as well as Pap tests and pelvic exams. Women are eligible for these services if they are an uninsured Illinois resident between the ages of 35 and 64. Additionally, if someone who is enrolled in the IBCCP is diagnosed with cancer through the program’s screenings and tests, they would be eligible to receive treatment benefits. For more information, please visit www.dph.illinois.gov or call the Illinois Women’s Health-Line at 1-888-522-1282.

“Health care is a human right, which is why I supported a budget that provides millions in funding for potentially lifesaving cancer screenings,” Ortiz added. “While we made great progress this year to build a stronger Illinois for women and families, much work remains to be done to expand access to health care and ensure nobody is denied care because they are uninsured.”