At Jordan Valley Community Health Center, we are dedicated to supporting the health of women in our communities. We offer a variety of services designed to help women feel their best and prioritize their well-being, like Show Me Healthy Women.
Show Me Healthy Women is a program that offers free breast and cervical cancer screenings for those who qualify.
For more information:
Call: 417-831-0150 or email: [email protected]
Show Me Healthy Women
Routine breast screenings, mammograms, and Pap tests can keep you safe and healthy, but not all women have access to these lifesaving exams. If you cannot afford a breast screening, mammogram, or Pap test, you may be eligible for free exams through Missouri’s Show-Me Healthy Women program.
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States. Show Me Healthy Women (SMHW) through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services aims to reduce that risk with early detection and intervention. Through that program, we offer free breast and cervical cancer screenings for Missouri women who meet the following guidelines:
Income at or below 250% of the federal poverty level
Age 21 to 64, or older
(If you are over 65 and do not receive Medicare Part B)
No insurance to cover program services
Mammogram FAQs
Mammograms are an essential breast cancer screening and diagnostic tool. Using low-dose X-rays, they can show abnormal areas in your breast tissue. They can help detect changes that could lead to breast cancer before you have symptoms. Most people should begin getting mammograms at age 40, although your age and frequency may depend on your risk factors. We partner with area hospitals for mammogram services.
At Jordan Valley Community Health Center, we generally recommend starting mammogram screenings at age 40. However, your provider may recommend starting earlier based on personal or family risk factors. Early detection is key.
Mammograms can be a little uncomfortable due to the pressure applied during the exam, but the process is quick and typically not painful. Our team works to make the experience as comfortable as possible for each patient.
Yes, you can shave your armpits beforehand. Just be sure not to use deodorant, powder, or lotion on your underarms or breasts on the day of your appointment, as these can affect your results by appearing on the X-ray.
Avoid using any deodorants, antiperspirants, powders, or lotions on your chest or underarms. These products can interfere with the imaging. We also recommend wearing a two-piece outfit, as you’ll need to undress from the waist up for the screening.
Many insurance plans cover screening mammograms starting at age 40. If you’re under 40 and your Jordan Valley provider recommends a diagnostic mammogram based on your symptoms or risk factors, your insurance may still cover it. We can help verify your coverage and offer options if you’re uninsured.
Pap Screening FAQs
A Pap test is often used to look for cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is cancer that starts as a growth of cells in the cervix. The cervix is the lower, narrow end of the uterus that opens into the vagina. Cervical cancer screening with a Pap test can find cervical cancer early, when it’s more likely to be cured.
In addition to looking for cancer cells, a Pap test also looks for cells that could become cancerous in the future. If the test finds precancerous cells, treatments could help prevent cancer.
Jordan Valley recommends starting Pap smears at age 21. If you’re unsure whether you’re due, our care team can help you understand your personal screening schedule and what’s best for your health.
Women ages 21 to 29 should typically get a Pap smear every 3 years. Starting at age 30, you may have the option of a Pap smear combined with an HPV test every 5 years. Your provider at Jordan Valley will help you decide what’s right based on your health history and results.
A Pap test at Jordan Valley screens for cervical cancer and precancerous cells that could develop into cancer. It’s a powerful tool for prevention and early detection. Our caring providers are here to explain your results and next steps if any follow-up is needed.
Most patients describe Pap smears as mildly uncomfortable, but not painful. At Jordan Valley, we take steps to help you feel comfortable and informed throughout the process. If you’re nervous, let your provider know — we’re here to help.
A Pap smear is primarily designed to detect abnormal cells in the cervix, not STDs. However, it can sometimes identify changes caused by HPV. We also offer separate STD testing and HPV testing — just ask your provider if you’d like both.
Women's Health Providers
Find A Women’s Health Location
Well-women exams and gynecology services are available at all Jordan Valley clinics. Pregnancy care is offered at the clinic locations listed below:
