Early Detection Works: Helping Kansas Women Access Life-Saving Screenings

At Ellinwood Hospital & Clinic, we believe every woman deserves access to preventive healthcare. Unfortunately, many women delay or skip important screenings because of cost, lack of insurance, or limited access to care.

That’s where the Early Detection Works program can help.

Early Detection Works is a statewide program through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment that helps eligible women receive free or low-cost breast and cervical cancer screenings. By removing financial barriers, the program ensures more women can access the screenings that play a critical role in early detection and treatment.

Why Early Detection Matters

Breast and cervical cancers are among the most treatable forms of cancer when detected early. Routine screenings allow healthcare providers to identify potential concerns before symptoms appear, which often leads to better outcomes and more treatment options.

However, studies show that women without health insurance are significantly less likely to stay up to date on their cancer screenings. In fact, uninsured women are 52% less likely to be up-to-date on their breast cancer screenings compared to insured women.

Programs like Early Detection Works are designed to close that gap and make sure women in Kansas have access to the care they need.

What Screenings May Be Covered

Through the Early Detection Works program, eligible women may receive important preventive services, including:

• Mammograms

• Clinical breast exams

• Pap tests

• HPV testing

• Diagnostic follow-up services if needed

These screenings can help detect cancer in its earliest stages, when treatment is often most effective.

Who May Qualify

Women may qualify for Early Detection Works if they:

• Live in Kansas

• Are 40–64 years old for breast cancer screenings

• Are 21–64 years old for cervical cancer screenings

• Are uninsured or underinsured

• Meet certain income guidelines

If you’re unsure whether you qualify, the care team at Ellinwood Hospital & Clinic can help answer your questions.

Access to Care Close to Home

Access to preventive healthcare is an important part of maintaining a healthy community. Through programs like Early Detection Works, Ellinwood Hospital & Clinic is proud to help connect women in our area with the screenings and services they need.

Regular screenings can help detect cancer early — often before symptoms appear — giving women the best possible chance for successful treatment.

Learn More

If you or someone you know may qualify for the Early Detection Works program, we encourage you to reach out.

📞 Call Ellinwood Hospital & Clinic at 620-564-3771 to learn more or to see if you qualify for free or low-cost breast and cervical cancer screenings.

Early detection truly works — and it can save lives.