Every Woman Matters Screening Program

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What you need to know

​​​What is the Every Woman Matters (EWM) screening program? 

Screening means regular testing (such as a mammogram or Pap test) to see if a person is healthy or sick. 

Breast and cervical cancer screening:
• Pelvic exam
• Pap test
• Clinical breast exam
• Screening mammogram

Heart disease and diabetes screening:
• Blood pressure check
• Cholesterol check
• Blood sugar (glucose) check
• Health and wellness information

A group of womenFor clients that have been screened and have at least one risk factor, they may be eligible to take part in FREE or reduced cost Healthy Behavior Support Services through a local Health Coach.  These support services help clients reach their weight, fitness, and nutrition goals.  Nebraska also has Quitline tools for clients that smoke and want to quit.

Healthy Behavior Support Services


 

Every Woman Matters Enrollment Age and Income Guidelines Update: 
Starting November 1, 2023, Every Woman Matters has changed its enrollment age from 40 years of age to 35.  It has also increased the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines from 225% to 250%.  

The program will be updating the website and forms as appropriate.  ​ 


How do I qualify and enroll in the EWM screening program?

EWM screening program qualifying criteria ​
Gender:Females Only
Age:35-74
Income:Must meet Income Guidelines
Insurance:CLIENT CANNOT HAVE INSURANCE
Citizenship:Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident*
*must provide front-back copy of Permanent Residency card
Health Status:Open to anyone who meets above criteria
Enrollment:

If you are a woman between 35-74 years old and you are in need of SCREENING tests and a well-woman exam, request a Healthy Lifestyle Questionnaire (HLQ) to enroll by:

 

Medicaid Expansion:  Heritage Health Adult expands Medicaid to lower income adults (age 19 to 64) who earn up to 138% of the federal poverty level. Nebraska Medicaid will begin accepting applications for HHA starting August 1, 2020. Benefits will begin on October 1, 2020.  For more information or to see if you are eligible please visit the Medicaid Expansion web site. 

When you enroll: 

  • Fill out the Healthy Lifestyle Questionnaire (HLQ), as it will help EWM and NCP determine what services are best for you.
  • Please be sure to answer all questions.  If you don't we will call you or send the form back and this could delay important health screenings. 
  • Do not make an appointment with your health care provider until you receive a Screening Card from the EWM office for the services that you are eligible for. 
  • If you are not eligible for services, you can still get health education.


 

Common questions and answers

How old do I have to be to enroll in the EWM Screening Program?

You have to be at least age 35 to qualify for screening services. (see table above)

How much money can I make and qualify for the program?

In order to qualify, your income must be below a certain level.  See the Income Guidelines.

Can I enroll in the EWM screening program if I have insurance?

You will not qualify to get screening services (regular checks to see if you are healthy) like mammograms or Pap tests because those will be covered by your insurance. 

Do I need to be a U.S. Citizen to qualify?

You either need to be a US Citizen OR a permanent resident.  If you are a permanent resident, we will need a copy of your residency card to verify your eligibility. 

If you are not a citizen or qualified resident, the program cannot provide services.  However, you can check with your doctor's office or call the Susan G. Komen Foundation for help at (877) 465-6636.

How do I enroll in the EWM screening program?

See the table above for more information.  Once you have found out that you are eligible, you must go to one of our contracted providers.  Call your doctor's office and ask if they are an EWM provider, or check out the contracted provider list.

Can men enroll in the EWM screening program?

No, but they can enroll in the Nebraska Colon Cancer Screening Program if they are ages 45 and over.

What if I need a Pap test and I'm under 35?

You can enroll in the State Pap Plus Program by going to one of the contracted providers on the EWM list.  Find a doctor's office and call for an appointment.  Tell the provider that you need a Pap test or STD testing and you would like to enroll in the State Pap Plus program.  State Pap Plus enrollment forms are online.

  • If you are under 35 and already had a Pap test and it came back abnormal, you can enroll in the EWM Diagnostic Program for diagnostic services. 

But what if I am under 35 and have a breast lump or abnormal Pap?

You are not eligible for the EWM screening program but you may be eligible for the EWM Diagnostic Program.

  • Diagnostic means there is a problem (such as a breast lump or an abnormal Pap test) that needs to be diagnosed, or to find out the cause. The EWM Diagnostic Program may help pay for testing to diagnose breast or cervical cancer only.
    • Women 18-74 years old can qualify for breast diagnostic services (like diagnostic mammograms, ultrasounds, and breast biopsies).
    • Women 21- 74 can qualify for cervical diagnostic services (like colposcopies).

Can I enroll in the EWM screening program to get help for other health or gynecological problems?

No. The EWM screening program only has funds for screening services.

What if I get diagnosed with breast cancer or cervical cancer while enrolled in the EWM screening program?

You may be eligible for Nebraska Medicaid to pay for your cancer treatment through a special program called the Women's Cancer p​rogram. Only those with no other health insurance are eligible. EWM nurses will contact you to assist with this process.