New York State Cancer Services Program

What is the Cancer Services Program?

The Cancer Services Program (CSP) provides breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screenings and diagnostic services at NO COST to people who:

  • Live in New York State
  • Do not have health insurance
  • Have health insurance with a cost share that may prevent a person from obtaining screening and/or diagnostic services
  • Meet income eligibility requirements
  • Meet age requirements

What cancer screening services does the CSP offer?

  • Breast Cancer Screening (Mammogram and Clinical Breast Exam)
    • Ages 40 and older (some programs serve ages 50 and older only)
    • Under age 40 at high risk for breast cancer*
  • Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Test, high-risk HPV test and Pelvic Exam)
    • Ages 40 and older
  • Colorectal Cancer Screening (Fecal Occult Blood Test/Fecal Immunochemical Test Kit)
    • Ages 45 and older at average risk for colorectal cancer
  • Colorectal Cancer Screening (Colonoscopy)
    • If at increased or high risk for colorectal cancer*

*Only as determined by a New York State-licensed health care provider per program guidelines.

Where are these screening services provided?

Services are provided in local clinics, health centers, doctors' offices and hospitals in every county and borough in New York State by health care providers who participate in the CSP.

Why should I be screened for cancer?

Early cancer detection saves lives!

Screening tests can prevent cervical and colorectal cancers by finding abnormal cells before they become cancer so that they can be removed. Screening tests for breast, cervical and colorectal cancers also find these cancers early, when treatment is most successful.

What if they find something or I need treatment after the screening?

  • If the screening test finds something abnormal, diagnostic (testing) services are available through the CSP for eligible people at no cost. The CSP will also provide a case manager who will guide you through your follow-up diagnostic appointment.
  • If breast, cervical or colorectal cancer is found, those eligible may be able to enroll in the NYS Medicaid Cancer Treatment Program to receive full Medicaid coverage for the entire time they are being treated for cancer.
  • If diagnosed with prostate cancer by a CSP health care provider you may be able to enroll in the NYS Medicaid Cancer Treatment Program (the CSP does not pay for prostate cancer screening or diagnostic services).

Who do I call to be connected to a CSP program in my area?

To find the CSP nearest you for breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening, diagnostic services and referral to treatment and support, call 1-866-442-CANCER (2262). The call is free and operators take calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to connect you to a Cancer Services Program near you. Hablamos español. They also have translation services for other languages.

Or, visit our Community Programs List to find your local CSP by county or borough and call directly.

What if I have health insurance?

Most health insurance plans, including Medicaid and the plans that participate in the New York State of Health, cover breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screenings at no cost to the patient

To learn more about the New York State of Health and Medicaid, visit these websites:

For more information contact:

1-866-442-CANCER (2262)

Bureau of Cancer Prevention and Control
New York State Department of Health
Riverview Center, Suite 350
Albany, NY 12204-0678
Phone: (518) 474-1222
Email: CanServ@health.ny.gov
Cancer Services Program logo