Prioritize breast health through prevention and early detection
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an important reminder to focus on prevention, early detection, and proactive steps to support breast health and holistic well-being.
Preventive care plays an important role in identifying concerns early, when treatment is often most effective. According to the National Cancer Institute, the five-year relative survival rate for localized breast cancer is 99.3% when it is found early, compared with 31% when it has spread to other parts of the body,* highlighting the importance of early detection and timely care.
Prevention starts with knowing the benefits and resources available
If you have coverage through the Medical Plan, you and any enrolled family members have access to preventive care benefits.
When you use network providers, eligible preventive services are covered at 100%** and include, as applicable:
- annual mammogram (including 3D) beginning at age 40; screening follow-up (MRI or ultrasound) per doctor’s recommendation; and biopsy when there is no diagnosis of breast cancer
- breast cancer genetic (BRCA) screening for those meeting specific high-risk criteria (prior authorization required)
- annual well-woman visit (including a breast exam)
- yearly preventive exam***
- additional preventive screenings and immunizations listed on the
Preventive Schedule
As with all preventive care benefits, services must meet preventive care requirements. To qualify as preventive care, you must visit your doctor without signs or symptoms of illness. Otherwise, you may be responsible for applicable copays, deductibles, and/or coinsurance.
A simple step that can make a difference
Preparing for preventive appointments can help you get the most from your visit. Consider reviewing the Preventive Schedule beforehand, gathering information about your family’s health history, and writing down questions you would like to discuss with your healthcare provider.
Conversations about personal risk factors, family history (including breast cancer or a BRCA gene mutation), lifestyle habits, and recommended screenings can help you and your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your care.
Prevention includes caring for your whole self
Preventive care involves more than scheduling appointments. Feelings of uncertainty or fear can sometimes make it difficult to schedule recommended screenings or discuss health concerns with a healthcare provider.
With the
Mental Well-Being and Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), available through Spring Health and fully integrated with Medical Plan benefits, eligible members have access to therapy, coaching, and digital tools to encourage and support overall well-being. That includes helping you prioritize preventive care, navigate health concerns, or cope with uncertainty or stress. Spring Health also offers self-care videos including
Managing Fear Around Screenings and
Mindful Prevention Without Fear to help you feel more prepared for recommended health screenings and appointments. Log in to your Spring Health account to view these videos.
Learn, advocate, and stay informed
The Lifelong Learning e-learning site features a number of webinar recordings that you may find helpful in thinking about breast cancer prevention and women’s health:
- Women Living Healthy, Whole, and Abundantly explores women's health and well-being.
- Being Your Own Healthcare Advocate offers guidance for navigating healthcare decisions and advocating for your care.
Making prevention a year-round priority
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an important reminder to schedule recommended screenings and make the most of your preventive care benefits. Small steps taken throughout the year can make a meaningful difference in supporting lifelong breast and overall health.
*Source: National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health, cancer.gov/types/breast/survival
**Retired members with medical coverage through the Board of Pensions and those enrolled in Triple-S or Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Solutions (formerly GeoBlue) also have preventive care benefits under their plans, but coverage details may differ. Consult your plan's provisions for details.
***Preventive exams do not need to be 12 months apart and may be scheduled anytime between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31 each calendar year. Triple-S and Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Solutions (formerly GeoBlue) preventive care benefits may differ; consult your plan's provisions for details.
