October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month — and the best protection is early detection. A mammogram can find breast cancer early, when it’s smallest and most treatable. If cost is what’s held you back, you’re not alone — and San Antonio has free options for women who qualify.
Also this month: the Komen MORE THAN PINK Walk is Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 7:00 a.m. at SeaWorld San Antonio. The walk is a fundraiser supporting breast cancer research and programs – it doesn’t provide free mammograms, but it’s a great way to support the cause.
Who qualifies: Texas BCCS
Texas Breast and Cervical Cancer Services (BCCS), run by Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC), covers free breast and cervical cancer screening AND diagnostic services for Texas women who:
- Are 18 or older
- Are uninsured or underinsured
- Have a household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level
BCCS providers cannot charge you copays for covered services. Find a BCCS provider at healthytexaswomen.org or call 2-1-1.
Please note: BCCS covers screening and diagnostics — not treatment. If follow-up care is needed, ask your provider or 2-1-1 about treatment options.
3 free mammogram resources in San Antonio
1. University Health healthyUexpress — the mobile mammography bus
University Health’s healthyUexpress bus brings 2D and 3D mammogram screenings to workplaces and neighborhoods across San Antonio — the screening comes to you.
- Who can be screened: Women 40 and older who have not had a mammogram in the past 12 months, are not pregnant or breastfeeding, have no history of breast cancer, and have no current breast symptoms
- Cost: Most insurance plans accepted; financial assistance is available for women with no other coverage who qualify
- Phone: 210-358-7020
- Schedule an appointment: universityhealth.com — Mobile Mammography
2. Texas BCCS (Breast and Cervical Cancer Services)
The statewide program described above — free breast and cervical screening and diagnostic services for Texas women 18+ who are uninsured or underinsured with income at or below 200% FPL. No copays allowed. Learn more and find a provider at healthytexaswomen.org, or call 2-1-1.
3. Women Health Services (YWCA San Antonio)
- Address: 2318 Castroville Rd, San Antonio, TX 78237
- What: Completely free screening and diagnostic mammograms and breast ultrasounds for low-income, uninsured patients who qualify for the grant — plus referrals for Pap smears
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Dr. Arlene Mora: (361) 277-9717
- Barbara Garcia: (361) 277-9650
What to expect at a mobile mammogram
A visit to the healthyUexpress bus is quick and straightforward. The whole appointment takes about 30 minutes, and University Health says results are available within about 24 hours. A trained technologist performs the screening in a private space on the bus — no hospital visit, no long wait.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I have insurance?
Most health plans, including marketplace plans, must cover screening mammograms for women 40 and older at no out-of-pocket cost. The University Health mobile unit also accepts most insurance plans.
What if I’m under 40?
Routine screening mammograms generally begin at 40, but Texas BCCS serves women 18 and older who qualify. And if you have a concern at any age, your doctor can order diagnostic imaging. Talk to your doctor or call 2-1-1.
What if I have symptoms, like a lump or pain?
See a doctor right away — don’t wait for a screening event. Screening mammograms are for women with no symptoms. If you notice a lump, pain, or other changes, call your doctor, who can order diagnostic mammograms or an ultrasound. Women Health Services (above) provides diagnostic mammograms and breast ultrasounds for qualifying uninsured women.
Is there a cost?
Not if you qualify. BCCS and the Women Health Services grant cover screenings at no cost — no copays, no bills. University Health’s mobile unit accepts most insurance and offers financial assistance for women with no other coverage who qualify.
Need more than a mammogram? Our free Apply for Me program finds the San Antonio programs you may qualify for — free health care, food, housing, utilities, and more.
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