By: Richard L. Smith
Hudson Regional Health is marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October by offering a series of mammogram screenings and community awareness events at hospitals in Hudson County.
According to information sent by Hudson Regional Health (HRH), the healthcare system will hold its 11th Annual Mammogram-A-Thon throughout October, providing weekday and weekend screening opportunities at Bayonne University Hospital and Hoboken University Hospital.
At Bayonne University Hospital, screenings will be available Wednesdays, October 7, 14, 21 and 28, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. An additional screening session will be held Saturday, October 24, from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Hoboken University Hospital will provide screenings October 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27 and 29, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Weekend appointments will also be available Saturday, October 17, from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Walk-ins are welcome, and residents can also register by calling 201-392-3278.
HRH officials said major insurance plans will be accepted.
Uninsured patients may qualify for free screenings through the Madeline Fiadini LoRe Foundation, while a $90 self-pay option will be available during October.
Patients who have not received a screening mammogram within the previous 12 months do not need a referral, and prescriptions can be provided when necessary.
HRH will also hold three Breast Cancer Awareness Brunches focused on education and awareness.
The first will take place at Secaucus University Hospital on Sunday, October 11, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bayonne University Hospital will host its brunch Saturday, October 17, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by Hoboken University Hospital on Saturday, October 24, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The screenings and community events are part of HRH’s efforts to encourage breast cancer awareness and access to early detection services throughout Hudson County.