If you’ve been putting off cancer screenings because of cost concerns, you might be surprised to learn about the free options available to you. There are substantial federal and state programs that could cover your screenings completely – and many people who qualify don’t even know these programs exist. These aren’t small, limited offerings either. They’re well-established initiatives that have been quietly helping millions of people get the care they need for over three decades.

The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program

The largest program is the CDC’s National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP), which operates in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, five U.S. territories, and through 12 tribal organizations. Since 1991, this program has provided more than 16 million screenings and found nearly 78,000 breast cancers and over 5,000 cervical cancers.

Who Qualifies:

• Women ages 40-64 for breast cancer screening

• Women ages 21-64 for cervical cancer screening

• Your yearly income is at or below 250% of the federal poverty level (that’s $39,125 for a single person or $66,625 for a family of three in 2025)

• You don’t have health insurance, or your insurance doesn’t fully cover screening tests

What’s Covered:

Mammograms, clinical breast exams, Pap tests, HPV tests, and any necessary follow-up diagnostic services. If cancer is found through the program, you may qualify for treatment through Medicaid under the Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment Act.

Colorectal Cancer Screening Support

The CDC’s Colorectal Cancer Control Program (CRCCP) works differently than the breast and cervical programs. Rather than providing direct screening services to individuals, it funds programs that partner with healthcare systems and clinics to increase screening rates.

How It Works:

The program partners with health systems and primary care clinics that serve populations with low colorectal cancer screening rates, focusing on people ages 45-75 who face barriers to screening, particularly those served by Federally Qualified Health Centers and community health centers.

You won’t apply directly to this program, but it works behind the scenes at participating clinics to make screening more accessible through patient reminders, navigation services, extended hours, and simplified processes.

Finding Your State’s Programs

Each state runs these federal programs a bit differently, and many have additional programs beyond the federal minimums.

Start with Your State Health Department:

You can find your local program contact information through the CDC’s directory, which includes phone numbers and program details for each state. Don’t worry if your state’s program has a different name – that’s completely normal.

Call the CDC Directly:

If you’re not sure where to start, call the CDC at 1-800-232-4636 to get connected with your local program.

Income Guidelines Are More Flexible Than You Think

While the federal guideline is 250% of the federal poverty level, some states set different income thresholds or have additional programs for people who earn slightly more. Some states offer sliding-fee scales or have separate state-funded programs with different eligibility requirements.

For 2025, 250% of the federal poverty level means:

• Single person: $39,125 annually ($3,260 monthly)

• Family of two: $52,875 annually ($4,406 monthly)

• Family of three: $66,625 annually ($5,552 monthly)

• Family of four: $80,375 annually ($6,698 monthly)

Beyond the Major Programs

Many states have developed their own cancer screening initiatives that expand upon the federal programs:

Additional Cancer Types:

Some states fund lung cancer screening programs for high-risk individuals or prostate cancer screening initiatives.

Expanded Age Ranges:

While federal programs have specific age requirements, some states use their own funding to serve younger or older individuals who need screening.

Enhanced Services:

States may provide additional support like transportation to appointments, childcare during screenings, or multilingual patient navigation.

How to Apply

The application process is typically straightforward, though it varies by state.

Documentation You’ll Usually Need:

• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements)

• Proof of residency in the state

• Documentation showing you don’t have adequate insurance coverage

What Happens Next:

Most programs will schedule your screening appointment and handle the coordination with healthcare providers. Many also provide patient navigation services to help you through the entire process, from initial screening through any necessary follow-up care.

Take the Next Step

These programs exist specifically to eliminate financial barriers to cancer screening, but they only work if people know about them and use them. Cancer screening is most effective when done regularly and according to recommended guidelines, catching cancers early when treatment is likely to work best.

If you think you might qualify, there’s no reason to wait. Even if you’re not completely sure about your eligibility, it’s worth making the call. Program staff are trained to help you understand what’s available in your area, and eligibility guidelines can be more flexible than they first appear.

Remember, these programs have helped make cancer screening and follow-up care more accessible for millions of low-income people, and you could be next. Your health is worth that phone call.

Program availability and eligibility requirements can change. Always check with your local program for the most current information about services and qualifications in your area.