Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program
The Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP), administered by the Illinois Department of Public Health, offers free breast and cervical cancer screenings—including mammograms, breast exams, pelvic exams, and Pap tests—for eligible women in Illinois. Illinois Department of Public Health Illinois.
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify for IBCCP services if you:
– Are a resident of Illinois
– Are aged 21–64 for cervical cancer screening or 40–64 for breast cancer screening (younger women may qualify if symptomatic)
– Have no insurance, have insurance that does not fully cover screening, or face high deductibles
– Have insurance but still face barriers to care such as needing help with transportation, scheduling appointments, or navigating the health system. (In these cases, you may qualify for clinical navigation services only, where our staff can assist you in getting connected to care.)
– No income requirement—screenings are generally free regardless of ability to pay
What to Expect
Screening services include:
– Clinical breast exams and mammograms
– Pelvic exams and Pap tests
– Additional diagnostic services as needed, based on results
You’ll receive guidance and coordination through each step—from screening to follow-up care.
Why Screenings Matter
Breast cancer, aside from skin cancers, is the most common cancer in women—but early detection through routine screening significantly improves outcomes.
Cervical cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms. Pap tests (and HPV testing) can identify precancerous changes early. Vaccination with two HPV doses at age 11–12 is highly protective.
What if I’m Diagnosed?
If you’re diagnosed through IBCCP, you may be eligible for free or low-cost treatment through the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services.
IBCCP agencies work closely with state treatment insurance programs, which means we can help you get enrolled and approved more quickly and with less hassle than if you applied on your own.
Even if diagnosed outside the program, you may still qualify for treatment benefits—no penalization for prior care elsewhere.
Contact Us
Have questions? Want to schedule a screening? Contact us!