Texas offers free screening tests to those who meet the requirements, while Houston clinics rely on sponsorships and income-based fees.
Houston has several options to access mammograms, Pap tests, and other breast and cervical cancer screening exams for those without health insurance or with insufficient coverage.
The state program Breast and Cervical Cancer Services (BCCS) covers screening and diagnostic tests with no out-of-pocket costs for those who qualify. Local organizations such as The Rose, the Houston Health Department, and the Spring Branch Community Health Center also offer sponsorships, discounted rates, or screening services and referrals.
Free services are not automatic at all clinics. Eligibility requirements, availability, and covered services must be confirmed when scheduling an appointment.
BCCS covers mammograms and Pap tests with no out-of-pocket costs for those who qualify
The Texas Breast and Cervical Cancer Services program provides screening and diagnostic testing for breast and cervical cancer to low-income women who are uninsured or have insufficient coverage.
General eligibility criteria include:
- reside in Texas;
- have a household gross income equal to or less than 200% of the federal poverty level;
- not have access to another program or benefit that covers the same services;
- meet the age and medical need criteria applicable to the requested service.
Among the allowed services are clinical breast exams, mammograms, pelvic exams, Pap tests, diagnostic studies, and care related to cervical dysplasia.
BCCS providers cannot charge copays for the services covered by the program.
Texas also automatically considers eligible for BCCS, during the initial intake or renewal, an applicant or household member who is currently enrolled in WIC or SNAP, provided they can verify the enrollment.
To locate a participating clinic, Texas maintains a Breast and Cervical Cancer Services provider search. You can also call 2-1-1 or 512-776-7796.
These options serve uninsured patients in the Houston area
| Provider | Services | Help for uninsured patients | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas BCCS | Mammograms, Pap tests, breast exams, and diagnostic studies | No out-of-pocket costs for covered services if all requirements are met | 2-1-1 / 512-776-7796 |
| The Rose | Mammograms and diagnostic breast studies | Sponsorship based on need and financial situation; options for patients who pay directly | 281-484-4708 |
| Houston Health Department | Breast and pelvic exams and screening for breast and cervical cancer | Discount-rate schedule; services are not denied due to inability to pay | 832-393-4220 |
| Spring Branch Community Health Center | Pap tests, women’s health exams, and referrals for mammography | Discounts based on income and household size | 713-462-6565 |
The Rose offers sponsored mammograms to uninsured patients
The Rose provides breast health services to both insured patients and those without coverage.
- The Rose Southeast: 12700 N. Featherwood, Suite 260, Houston, TX 77034.
- The Rose Galleria: 6575 West Loop South, Suite 275, Bellaire, TX 77401.
- Phone: 281-484-4708.
Its Empower Her program offers sponsorship to uninsured patients based on need and financial situation. Assistance can cover everything from the initial mammogram to diagnostic studies such as ultrasounds and biopsies.
To evaluate financial assistance, The Rose asks uninsured patients for photo ID, a medical order, and proof of income or a letter of support.
Those who do not receive sponsorship can also inquire about direct payment options.
The Rose specializes in breast health and does not offer cervical cancer screening tests.
Houston Health Department offers cervical cancer screening and discounted rates
The Houston Health Department’s Family Planning and Reproductive Health program includes breast and pelvic exams, in addition to screening tests for breast and cervical cancer.
The services are available at:
- Northside Health Center: 8504 Schuller Road, Houston, TX 77093.
- Sunnyside Health and Multi-Service Center: 4410 Reed Road, Houston, TX 77051.
Appointments for family planning and preventive services can be requested at 832-393-4220.
The department’s health centers operate with a discount fee scale and note that access to services is not denied solely due to inability to pay.
The final cost depends on the service and the corresponding evaluation.
Spring Branch offers Pap tests and referrals for mammograms
Spring Branch Community Health Center provides women’s health services at several clinics in the western and northwestern parts of the Houston metropolitan area.
Their services include preventive exams, Pap tests, cancer screening, and referrals for mammograms.
The center has a financial assistance program based on income and household size.
Discounts mainly help cover the cost of the visit to the provider, but laboratories, vaccines, and other procedures may incur additional charges.
The assistance application requires documents such as proof of identity, residence, household composition, health coverage, and income.
For information and appointments, call 713-462-6565.
Free access depends on eligibility and the program
Not all mammograms or Pap tests are automatically free simply because you do not have insurance.
BCCS requires an eligibility assessment, while clinics and community organizations use different rules to grant discounts or sponsorships.
When scheduling an appointment, it is advisable to confirm:
- whether the provider participates in BCCS;
- whether there are programs for uninsured patients;
- whether it offers sliding-scale rates;
- which income or residency documents are required;
- whether laboratories or follow-up studies incur additional charges;
- whether the mammogram requires a physician’s order or medical referral.
Eligibility for BCCS can be determined through an approved form or a telephone interview. Current enrollment in WIC or SNAP can automatically qualify you for the program, provided you present the proper documentation.
To locate a nearby BCCS provider, you can search by ZIP code or seek assistance by calling 2-1-1.
