The Williamson County Commissioners Court approved using CARES Act funding and the County’s Tobacco Fund to assist uninsured women with some healthcare services that were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many women have reportedly not received their annual breast cancer screenings as a result of facilities closing due to COVID-19, and now many women have a fear of going into healthcare facilities as the number of COVID-19 cases increases, the county says.
The program will assist eligible women with screening and treatment, as well as primary care and mental health services. The CARES Act funds will be used to upgrade a mobile mammography unit with 3-D imaging technology.
Eligibilty includes women who are residents of Williamson County living at or below 250% the federal poverty level.
“Early detection of breast cancer is critical for successful treatment. This program will help many uninsured women receive vital screenings and care that was postponed due to the pandemic,” said Precinct 2 Commissioner Cynthia Long.
The program is anticipated to run for three years. Approximately $424,145 from the CARES Act funds will be used. The Court also approved using approximately $512,514 from the County’s Tobacco Fund in order to provide healthcare assistance following the expiration of the CARES Act funding on December 30.
