Breast cancer is one of the leading expenses on campus.
Of 2,647 eligible employees for breast cancer screenings, last year only 1,077 got mammograms, which is only 44 percent participation.
“We know that women out there aren’t getting screenings,” said Jenny Swaim, executive support assistant in the Facilities Division.
However, Auburn University administration is working to change those facts.
A consultant, Willis of Alabama Inc., was hired to analyze the health care plan on campus and provide assistance in establishing wellness programs on campus.
It was after the consultant studied the health care plan when it was determined that breast cancer was one of the leading expenses on campus.
Breast cancer is an expense because Auburn University is self-insured, meaning the University pays for all the health expenses, except for co-pays.
Blue Cross Blue Shield is the administrator of Auburn’s health care plan, but the company does not pay for health care.
To combat some of these expenses, the administration is taking a “proactive” position on health care at Auburn.
One of the first steps in the University’s efforts to be proactive is AU Mammogram Day.
“I think what we’re real proud of is that the administration has stepped forward and recognized this concern,” Swaim said.
On Oct. 31, employees or their spouses can go to the East Alabama Medical Center for a mammogram at no cost.
Insurance typically covers the cost of mammograms, but women would first have to visit a doctor and pay a co-pay to get a referral.
On AU Mammogram Day, women will be able to get the screening without a referral.
Colleen Alsobrook, EAMC Breast Health Navigator, has been working to coordinate the event. She said 82 women should be able to get a mammogram that day.
“We’re going to do two women every 10 minutes,” Alsobrook said.
Alsobrook said breast cancer awareness is important because many women tend to put off mammograms.
“My main concern is we’re seeing younger and younger women with cancer,” she said.
AU Mammogram Day is filling up quickly, but another day will be opened up for people to get mammograms if needed.
“Auburn University administration does realize there’s a problems and we want to do everything we can to help our employees,” Swaim said.
Anyone interested in participating in this event should contact Colleen Alsobrook at 528-4370.
Alsobrook said most of the spots are filled already, but those interested in participating should still call.
If needed, the University can provide transportation to EAMC on AU Mammogram Day.
