RESOURCES

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3416 Seawolf Drive Rasmuson, Hall 116/120, Anchorage, AK 99508

Call 907-786-4040 to schedule an appointment/check for eligibility.

UAA Student Health and Counseling Center

The Student Health and Counseling Center here at UAA offers a variety of services, ranging from psychological to physical. The center also performs cervical cancer screenings on campus in addition to drug screens, sexually transmitted disease screenings, and depression screenings.

These services are available to you as long as you are currently enrolled and taking at least one credit. While offering significantly reduced pricing for students, the clinic also accepts some forms of insurance.

If the requested service is not available, you will be directed to services offered in partnership with the clinic that can assist you, such as Ladies First, which is listed below.

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Ladies First Program

Alaskans who qualify with the aid of Ladies First can get screened for cervical and breast cancer. Members of Ladies First are eligible for complimentary pap tests and mammograms. In addition, Ladies First assists women in receiving financial assistance if they require medical care and pays for diagnostic testing as necessary.

Some qualifications for the program are:

Meeting the programs income guidelines
An Alaskan aged 21-64
Do not have insurance
Have a high insurance deductible

To check for eligibility call 1-800-410-6266 and enroll over the phone.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mammograms

What is a mammogram?
- A mammogram is conducted using an x-ray machine to take pictures of the breast to detect breast cancer when at its earliest stages. Radiologists are usually in the room with you to guide you through the process. For a more in-depth view, check out the embedded video.
Can I do a breast self-exam?
- According to MayoClincic, most medical organizations don't recommend breast self-exams as a part of breast cancer screening. This is due to the lack of evidence that breast self-exams are useful in preventing cancer or increasing the lives of breast cancer patients.
How do I know if I am at risk?
- It's not just individuals with a genetic predisposition who develop breast cancer. Women are particularly vulnerable, and the risk grows as they become age.
How long do I have to wait for results?
- Like any other lab test, it can take anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks. Your provider should contact you with results and a follow-up plan depending on your results.
How often should I get tested?
- The American Cancer Society recommends:
  - Women ages 40 to 54 should get mammograms every year.
  - Women ages 55 and older should get a mammogram every two years or can continue annual screenings.

Frequently Asked Questions about PAP Tests

What is a PAP test?
- A PAP test/smear uses specialized tools to collect cells from your cervix during the exam in order to check for any changes or abnormalities in your cervical cells. Watch the embedded video for a more in-depth explanation.
What is the difference between a PAP test and a Pelvic exam?
- A pelvic exam is a standard examination to evaluate your gynecological health. The doctor will examine your pelvis, vulva, vagina, cervix, ovaries, and uterus for any abnormalities. This can be done simultaneously with your PAP test.
How long does the test take?
- The average PAP test takes about 15-20 minutes.
Do I need one even though I am not sexually active?
- Yes! Although most HPV-causing cervical cancer, is mainly sexually transmitted, HPV can also be spread from skin to skin contact. Your gynecologist will use the appropriate tool to administer your test.
How long do I have to wait for the results?
- Like any other lab test, it can take anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks. Your provider should contact you with results and a follow-up plan depending on your results.
How often should I get tested?
- According to Mayo Clininc, doctors generally recommend repeating Pap testing every three years for women ages 21 to 65.

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