Submitted by Paige Feigenbaum
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — Since 2011, the Holy Cross Health Partners in Breast Health (PIBH) program has provided outreach education, clinical breast exams, screening mammograms and diagnostic procedures for uninsured, lower income and minority women over the age of 40 in Broward County who lack access to healthcare services and who are living at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.
The goal of PIBH is to reduce late-stage breast cancer diagnosis and decrease death in minority populations. According to the American Cancer Society, Black women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have a 38% higher mortality rate than white women mostly due to later diagnosis and less access to high-quality healthcare. In fact, Black women have the lowest survival rate for every known stage of breast cancer.
Two patients who credit PIBH for enabling them to receive lifesaving diagnosis and treatment are Romelia Catarino of Fort Lauderdale and northwest Broward County resident Beatriz Rodriguez.
Catarino first noticed a small rash on her chest and initially used natural creams to treat what she thought was a skin irritation. One to two months later, it grew and became increasingly painful. Growing concerned, her husband brought her to a doctor at a community clinic, which is where the 58-year-old was told about PIBH. It turns out the rash was a sign of breast cancer. Catarino is receiving chemotherapy infusions at the Michael and Dianne Bienes Comprehensive Cancer Center at Holy Cross Health.
“I wouldn’t be able to have care if it wasn’t for the PIBH program and charity,” Catarino said. “They’ve guided me and helped me since day one. I’m so grateful.”
Rodriguez felt a lump in one of her breasts, so she made her appointment for an annual mammogram. She was diagnosed with breast cancer and was scared for her future. Rodriquez underwent surgery and received infusions and radiotherapy.
“I couldn’t have done all the treatment and care if it wasn’t for the Holy Cross Partners in Breast Health,” Rodriguez said. “Besides my family, the staff from the Holy Cross Health Cancer Center and Skarlleth Kauffmann from Partners in Breast Health were my main support. I am forever grateful.”
Although Breast Cancer Awareness Month has drawn to a close, PIBH is available year-round for those who meet the program’s criteria. Uninsured symptomatic women who are younger than 40 also qualify for PIBH. The program includes follow up to assist patients with additional diagnostics, treatment and special needs. To learn more about PIBH, go to holy-cross.com or call (954) 294-0582 or (954) 542-1652.
Holy Cross Health has also extended their Breast Cancer Awareness Month special to include the entire month of November for uninsured patients. For a discounted rate of $100, patients can receive a mammogram screening using the SmartCurve™ 3D breast stabilization system. This state-of-the-art procedure offers improved mammogram comfort without compromising image quality, workflow or dose. Bone density screenings are also available for $150. Both tests are conducted at the Dorothy Mangurian Comprehensive Women’s Center at Holy Cross HealthPlex in Fort Lauderdale. To book an appointment, call (954) 542-0277.
