Prioritizing your breast health is important. Here are a few tips to get you started.
Take advantage of preventive care coverage and stay on schedule with screenings
Regular check-ups with your health care team are important event when everything feels normal. These screenings are covered by your plan and can identify issues before symptoms arise. Your doctor can help you determine what’s right for you, and that will usually look like:
- Ages 25-39: a clinical breast exam (CBE) every 1-3 years to monitor your breast health.
- Ages 40-74: a mammogram every 1-2 years alongside an annual CBE.
- Ages 75+: your doctor will help you determine how often you need screenings based on your health and individual needs.
If you have an increased risk due to family history or other factors, your health care team may recommend starting screenings earlier or scheduling them more frequently. Don’t hesitate to consult your health care provider to ensure you’re on track.
You can use our Find a Doctor tool to find a provider, or schedule an appointment via your Quartz MyChart.
Genetic testing
If breast cancer is prevalent in your family, particularly among close relatives like your mother or sister, you might consider genetic testing. This test can identify specific inherited gene mutations—such as BRCA1 and BRCA2—that substantially elevate your risk of developing breast cancer. Understanding your genetic risk can guide you in making informed choices about preventive strategies, including more frequent screenings, lifestyle adjustments, or even preventive surgeries. Speak with your doctor or a genetic counselor to determine whether testing is appropriate for you and what actions you can take based on the results. Quartz Customer Success is here to help you understand what’s covered by your plan.
Pay attention to changes
Your doctor may recommend becoming familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts so you can more easily notice changes. Being aware of differences such as lumps, swelling, skin changes, or discomfort can help you identify concerns and discuss them with your doctor. While this is not a substitute for recommended screenings, knowing what is normal for you can help you take an active role in your breast health. If you notice any changes or have any concerns, contact your care team.
We’re here to support you.
You can find additional information about recommended preventive care on our Annual Wellness Guidelines page or learn more about preventive care and healthy living for women.
View preventive care services covered under the Affordable Care Act or reach out to Quartz Customer Success at the number on the back of your Quartz Member ID if you have any questions about your benefits.
Did you know?
The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 (WHCRA) is a federal law that provides protections to patients who choose to have breast reconstruction in connection with a mastectomy. If you have had or are going to have a mastectomy, you may be entitled to certain benefits under WHCRA.
