Phoebe Sumter Offering Free Mammograms in October

October calendar from Phoebe Sumter promotes free mammograms for eligible women; schedule your appointment this month.Albany, GA | September 25, 2026 – In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and as part of Phoebe Sumter Medical Center’s commitment to promoting women’s health, Phoebe Sumter will provide 50 free 3-D mammogram screenings throughout October. These screenings are available for women who are uninsured and in need of their annual mammogram.

The 3-D mammography procedure is similar to a traditional mammogram, but the key difference is that the tomosynthesis machine moves around the breast rather than staying stationary. During the 3-D exam, multiple low-dose images are captured from different angles, offering a more comprehensive view of the breast tissue. This advanced imaging allows radiologists to better detect and evaluate individual breast structures, reducing the risk of missing abnormalities due to overlapping tissue.

“At Phoebe Sumter, we take our commitment to our community very seriously. This is one way each year that we can reach out to women in and around Sumter County to ensure they have access to this potentially lifesaving screening,” said Carlyle Walton, President of Phoebe Sumter Medical Center.

To be considered for one of the free breast tomosynthesis screenings, each applicant must meet the following criteria:

  • Not had a mammogram in the last 12 months
  • Age 40 or older
  • Not experiencing any breast problems, (if you are experiencing breast problems, contact your doctor immediately)
  • Uninsured
  • Not pregnant
  • Live in one of the following counties: Sumter, Schley, Macon, Marion, Dooly, Webster, Stewart, and Taylor
  • Must have a referring physician

It is important to note that this event is only for initial mammogram screenings and does not apply to follow-up imaging. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women, other than skin cancer.

For 2026, the American Cancer Society projects approximately 321,910 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed. In addition, an estimated 60,730 cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a non-invasive early form of breast cancer, will be identified, and nearly 42,140 lives will be lost to the disease.

Appointments for the free screenings can be scheduled now by contacting the Phoebe Patient Contact Center at (229) 931-1375.