Dignity Health's No-Cost Mammogram Program Amplified During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

SANTA MARIA, CA, October 8, 2025 – In a dedicated effort to combat breast cancer and champion community health, Dignity Health's Hearst Cancer Resource Center (HCRC) at French Hospital Medical Center (FHMC) is highlighting their no-cost screening mammogram clinics in October. 

These vital services are specifically for uninsured and underinsured patients in San Luis Obispo County, reinforcing the organization’s ongoing commitment to accessible, life-saving preventive care.

While HCRC and FHMC regularly offer a no-cost monthly screening mammogram clinic, the observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month has prompted an increase in available appointments this October. This expansion addresses the critical need for early detection, a factor that profoundly impacts successful breast cancer treatment outcomes. Nationally, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer throughout her lifetime, underscoring the urgency of these screenings.

"We are deeply committed to the health and well-being of our community," stated Julie Neiggemann, Director of the Hearst Cancer Resource Center. "Providing no-cost mammograms for those who are uninsured or underinsured is an essential step toward removing barriers to care and ensuring that more women have access to life-saving screenings. Early detection dramatically improves outcomes, and we urge all eligible individuals to take advantage of this crucial opportunity."

Special October Screening Events at Women's Health & Imaging Center:

The Women's Health & Imaging Center, a service of French Hospital Medical Center, will host two special screening events this month:

Dates: Wednesday, October 8th and Wednesday, October 22nd
Time: 4:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: 1941 Johnson Avenue, Suite 104, San Luis Obispo

Accessing Your No-Cost Mammogram:

To receive a no-cost screening mammogram, uninsured and underinsured patients must first schedule a complimentary clinical breast exam with one of Dignity Health's participating community collaborators. During this appointment, patients will obtain a referral for their no-cost mammogram and if needed, can also establish care with a primary care physician.  Patients who already have a primary care provider and are over the age of 40 can self refer. 

Participating Collaborators for Clinical Breast Exams:

SLO Noor Medical Clinic: 1428 Phillips Lane, Suite 203, San Luis Obispo, (805) 439-1797

The Center: 705 Grand Avenue, San Luis Obispo, (805) 544-2478

Looking Ahead:

Following the special October events, a regular no-cost mammogram clinic is also scheduled for November 19th.

For more information or to schedule your mammogram appointment at the Women’s Health & Imaging Center after obtaining your referral, please contact Eloisa Medina at (805) 503-9497 or Jessica Reyes at (805) 235-3641.

The HCRC offers more than 30 life-changing services to patients at no charge, including our Patient Navigation Program, connecting patients with an oncology nurse for vital guidance and support throughout their cancer journey; diagnosis-specific support groups; mental health services with a licensed clinical social worker; transportation assistance; bilingual services provided in Spanish, including translation at medical appointments; an Appearance Center offering free wigs; wellness classes such as yoga and guided meditation; support for patients in financial need; and much more.

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About French Hospital Medical Center

French Hospital Medical Center is a state-of-the-art, 98-bed acute care hospital located in San Luis Obispo, California. French’s Oppenheimer Family Center for Emergency Medicine is the area’s most advanced emergency services center. The modern facility is home to the Copeland, Forbes, and Rossi Cardiac Care Center, San Luis Obispo County’s premier cardiac center, providing the latest cardiac and imaging technology, and the Hearst Cancer Resource Center offering free education, resources and support to cancer patients and their families. 

Learn more at dignityhealth.org/frenchhospital.

About Dignity Health Central Coast

Seven award-winning hospitals comprise Dignity Health Central Coast: Arroyo Grande Community Hospital in Arroyo Grande, Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz, French Hospital Medical Center in San Luis Obispo, Marian Regional Medical Center in Santa Maria, Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, St. John’s Regional Medical Center in Oxnard and St. John’s Hospital Camarillo, all recognized for their quality of care, safety, and service.

Additionally, Dignity Health Central Coast has a network of nearly 50 physician offices known as Pacific Central Coast Health Centers that include primary care, cancer care and various specialty offices. Dignity Health Central Coast also includes premier ambulatory surgery centers, technologically advanced imaging centers, outpatient services, and comprehensive home health services.

Learn more at dignityhealth.org/centralcoast.