Help educate people with Medicare about the steps they can take to protect themselves and their loved ones from cervical cancer.

Each year, more than 11,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer. It occurs most often in people over 30. Long-lasting infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause. If found early, it’s highly treatable and associated with long survival and good quality of life.

Screening tests and the HPV vaccine can help prevent cervical cancer. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers Pap tests and pelvic exams to check for cervical and vaginal cancers. As part of the pelvic exam, Medicare also covers a clinical breast exam to check for breast cancer. Medicare covers these screening tests once every 24 months in most cases. If an individual is at high risk for cervical or vaginal cancer, or of child-bearing age and had an abnormal Pap test in the past 36 months, Medicare covers these screening tests once every 12 months.

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) also covers HPV tests (as part of a Pap test) once every 5 years for individuals between 30-65 without HPV symptoms.

If a doctor or other health care provider accepts assignment, there’s no cost for the following:

• Lab Pap test
• Lab HPV with Pap test
• Pap test specimen collection
• Pelvic and breast exams

For more information and resources, visit CDC.gov/cancer/cervical/resources/index.htm.