3D Breast Cancer Screening Program
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths for American women. A simple screening can help detect breast cancer early, with potentially life-saving results. As a UFT member, you have access to a very effective breast cancer screening program through RadNet as well as access to high-quality women’s health care from AdvantageCare Physicians (ACPNY).
Are you eligible?
- A UFT member
- Age 40 or older
- 12 months since your last mammogram
- Have a primary care physician or OB/GYN
If you meet the criteria above, you can schedule a mammogram today online or call RadNet at 800-621-4844.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost for this program?
The 3D mammogram is a screening service provided as an annual mammogram screening. UFT members who have EmblemHealth do not have to pay any out-of-pocket costs for breast cancer screening when services are delivered by a provider in EmblemHealth’s network.
Do I need a referral?
No, you can schedule a mammogram appointment today with no referral necessary. However, it is clinical best practice for people to have an ongoing relationship with a primary care provider or women’s health provider to receive the results of your screening even though a referral is not required for you to receive a mammogram.
What if I don’t have a primary care physician?
The results of your mammogram will be shared with your primary care or women’s health provider. However, if you do not have an existing provider relationship, RadNet will arrange for a provider to receive the results of your mammogram for a follow-up consultation with you.
At what age are mammograms covered by EmblemHealth insurance?
Annual mammogram screenings are recommended to begin at age 40. If you have a family history or other risk factors for developing breast cancer, your provider may recommend that mammograms begin earlier. Having a trusted provider that understands your medical history and risk is critical to determining the best approach for you.
Can members enrolled in other city health plans take advantage of this program?
Yes, this program will be covered under all city health plans, however, UFT members are encouraged to confirm that RadNet breast cancer screening is included in your health plan’s network prior to scheduling your mammogram.
What if I’m younger than 40?
Talk to your primary care physician or OB/GYN to see if you still quality for a 3D mammogram based on family or medical history. If you do not have an existing provider relationship, you can schedule an appointment with ACPNY or call 646-680-4227.
If I recently got a mammogram, how long do I have to wait to get a 3D mammogram?
Mammograms are covered by insurance once every 12 months.
Do members receive any time off to get mammograms?
Leaving work for the purpose of cancer screening for up to four hours per year is considered paid leave for DOE employees. Requests for such time off must be made in advance and in writing. Approval must be granted by the principal or supervisor, as long as a request does not substantially disrupt the normal operation of the school or office. If is determined that a substantial disruption may occur, re-scheduling to a more reasonable time may be required.
Do you have to work with an AdvantageCare Physician (ACPNY) to participate in this program?
No, however, if you would like to transfer your care to an ACPNY provider before or after receiving a mammogram, you can schedule an appointment with ACPNY through their website or call 646-680-4227.
How effective is this new 3D mammogram technology?
These mammograms provide a significantly improved resolution that helps the radiologist detect breast cancer. In addition, artificial intelligence (AI) is used, which research suggests may enable the identification of breast cancers one to two years earlier than traditional imaging. This is the most advanced screening technology available today.