Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast helps eligible uninsured women age 40 and older access breast cancer screenings in Santa Rosa Beach and Watersound.

For women who have postponed a mammogram because they lack health insurance, help is available close to home. During October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast is encouraging eligible women in Walton and Okaloosa counties to use its free mammogram program. Funded by Sacred Heart Foundation donors, the program helps uninsured women age 40 and older access preventive breast cancer screenings.

The local need is significant. According to information provided by Ascension, more than half of women in Walton and Okaloosa counties did not receive an annual mammogram. Nearly 40% of breast cancer cases in Walton County are diagnosed at advanced stages, compared with just over 30% in Okaloosa County.

Finding breast cancer before it spreads can make a substantial difference. The American Cancer Society reports a five-year relative survival rate of more than 99% for breast cancer diagnosed at a localized stage.

Trey Abshier, president and CEO of Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast, said the program helps remove financial barriers to screening and supports earlier treatment. Local services include 3D mammography, breast ultrasound and biopsy.

Who qualifies for a free mammogram?
According to Ascension’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month announcement, women may qualify if they:

Live in Walton or Okaloosa County.

• Are age 40 or older
• Do not have health insurance
• Are seeking a preventive screening and have no current breast health symptoms
• Have seen a primary care clinician within the past year.

To confirm eligibility and schedule a free screening, call the breast navigator at 850-278-3063.

Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast offers mammograms at its women’s centers in Santa Rosa Beach and Watersound. General mammogram appointment information is available at ascension.org/SacredHeartMammogram.
Screening schedules depend on age, personal risk and health history. Women should discuss the appropriate schedule with their clinician, especially if breast cancer runs in their family.

Turn awareness into action
Breast Cancer Awareness Month offers a reminder to check when the next screening is due and help someone else access care. Readers can share this program with an uninsured friend or family member who may qualify. Those wishing to help fund screenings can support the Sacred Heart Foundation.
One shared phone number could help a neighbor take the next step.

Editor’s Note

My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer when I was 18. She endured 5 years of treatment, and our family eventually lost her to the disease. For us, stories about access to breast care are deeply personal. Sharing this resource is one small way to honor her memory and help another family find the care they need.