MIRAMAR BEACH, Fla. – Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast announced Thursday it is offering free mammogram screenings for uninsured women aged 40 and older in Walton and Okaloosa counties. The hospital group timed the announcement to coincide with Breast Cancer Awareness Month and stated the program is funded through its Sacred Heart Foundation.
Citing its own data, Ascension says that more than half of eligible women in the two-county area did not receive an annual mammogram as recommended. The organization’s press release also asserted that nearly 40% of breast cancer cases in Walton County and over 30% in Okaloosa County are diagnosed in advanced stages. Early detection is widely considered key to successful treatment outcomes.
To qualify for the program, the hospital states that women must reside in Walton or Okaloosa County, be uninsured, be 40 or older, and have seen a primary care clinician within the past year. The screening is intended for preventive care, and applicants should not have current breast health symptoms. Those who meet the criteria can call 850-278-3063 to schedule an appointment.
