Prevention as self-care: Shifting the
paradigm

In this episode, we’re joined by Carrie Whitcher, chief quality officer and vice president of quality performance at UPMC Health Plan; Dr. Bob Edwards, chair of ob-gyn at the University of Pittsburgh, and the chief medical officer of UPMC’s Community and Ambulatory Services Division, to discuss preventive care for women.

Related to this Episode:

Cancer screenings save lives.

The American Cancer Society offers guidelines for cancer screenings by age. For example, women starting at 25 should be screened for cervical cancer. Women who may be at a higher risk for colon cancer due to family history may have to be tested earlier than others who do not. Talk to your doctor about your family history, and get your screenings.

Screening exams, genetic testing, and risk reduction services are available at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. Call 412-623-1266.

Women who are living below the poverty level can access some cancer screenings and other services through a new Pennsylvania Department of Health initiative. Learn more about the Pennsylvania Breast & Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, or call 1-800-215-7494.

The African American Cancer Support Group through UPMC aims to address factors leading to a higher rate of deaths from cancer among Black women. For more information, call 412-623-1266.

For more information about social determinants of health, visit UPMC Health Plan’s Center for Social Impact. UPMC Health Plan members can also learn more about coverage for preventive services.

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