Episcopal Health Services (EHS), a prominent healthcare provider serving the Rockaway Peninsula and Five Towns, has announced the expansion of its Cancer Services Program to offer no-cost breast and cervical cancer screenings and diagnostic services.
Supported by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), these services are now available not only at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital but also at the EHS Clinical Learning Center at 19-09 Plainview Ave. and at Margaret O. Carpenter Women’s Center at 105-38 Rockaway Beach Blvd.
The Cancer Services Program at EHS has screened and treated hundreds since its inception, providing essential early-detection services that significantly improve patient outcomes. Accredited by the NYSDOH, the expanded program aims to make cancer screenings more accessible to underserved communities, especially for those who are uninsured. To date, the program has diagnosed and treated multiple cases of breast and cervical cancers, connecting patients with the Medicaid Cancer Treatment Program to ensure ongoing, comprehensive care.
“Early detection of cancer is crucial for successful treatment,” said Preet Kukreja, MBA, MHA, FAPM, Director of Population Health at EHS. “The Cancer Services Program provides screenings that can identify abnormal cells before they become cancerous, allowing for timely intervention.”
The NYSDOH underscores the importance of routine screenings for breast, cervical and colorectal cancers, as early detection greatly enhances treatment success rates. Through EHS’s program, diagnostic services are available at no cost to individuals who receive abnormal results. Those diagnosed with breast, cervical or colorectal cancer through the program may also be eligible for the Medicaid Cancer Treatment Program, which offers full coverage for necessary care.
“The success of the Cancer Services Program is a testament to our commitment to provide accessible and affordable cancer care,” said Renee Hastick-Motes, Senior Vice President and Chief External Affairs Officer at EHS. “The program has demonstrated significant impact in improving community health and addressing prevalent cancer disparities within our population.”
