Breast and Cervical Cancer (IBCCP)
What is the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program?
The Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP) offers free mammograms, breast exams, pelvic exams, and Pap tests to women. IBCCP also offers treatment benefits to women diagnosed with cancer through the program's screenings. Women diagnosed outside of the program may also qualify for free treatment through IBCCP, however, for best continuation of care, it is encouraged that women apply to the IBCCP program before their first screening.
Why are regular screenings so important?
Except for skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women. However, if it is detected while still in the earlier stages, breast cancer can be successfully treated. Routine mammograms and breast exams can detect cancer early and provide women with better treatment options and results.
Cervical cancer is also treatable if detected early. There are often no noticeable symptoms, so it is important that women get screened regularly, including screenings for HPV, and have a Pap test, which can find any abnormal changes that could turn into cancer. As many cases of cervical cancer are caused by the HPV virus, vaccination for HPV can prevent cervical cancer. HPV vaccination is available at the health department.
Who is eligible to receive a free screening?
There are no income guidelines for this program. You may be eligible if:
- You live in Knox, Warren, or Henderson Counties
- You do not have insurance, including Medicaid or Medicare Part B, or your health insurance will not cover these services.
- You are between the ages of 40 to 64 (women younger than 40 may be eligible in some cases).
How do I apply for this program?
Call the Knox County Health Department at 309-344-2224 to make an appointment.
If you live outside of Knox, Warren, or Henderson counties, you can contact your local IBCCP agency, or call the Women's Health Line at 888-522-1282 for assistance.
Additional information about the IBCCP program is available at the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Community Referral Guide for Knox, Warren and Henderson counties
