Mammobile Returns to Gers: Free Mobile Breast Cancer Screening for Rural Residents
Early detection is the most powerful tool we have in the fight against breast cancer. However, for women living in rural areas, the distance to a medical center can often become a barrier to life-saving care. To bridge this gap, the “Mammobile” is returning to the Gers department this spring and summer, bringing high-quality diagnostic imaging directly to local communities.
Launched by the departmental council with support from ARS Occitanie and various health partners, this mobile unit is designed to ensure that geography doesn’t dictate health outcomes. By removing the need for long commutes to urban hospitals, the initiative makes preventative care accessible and stress-free.
Who is Eligible for Screening?
The Mammobile specifically targets women who are most at risk or overdue for screening. The service is free of charge and available to women who meet the following criteria:
- Aged between 50 and 74 years old.
- Have not had a mammogram performed within the last two years.
How the Mammobile Works
The Mammobile isn’t just a transport vehicle; it’s a fully equipped medical clinic on wheels. Housed in a semi-trailer, the unit features a state-of-the-art digital mammograph and a private consultation space. This allows patients to receive a professional clinical exam and imaging in a comfortable, confidential environment.
To ensure the highest standard of care, the unit is staffed by a multidisciplinary team, including:
- Radiographers: Specialists trained to operate the digital imaging equipment.
- Physicians and Midwives: Experts who conduct clinical examinations and ensure the process follows strict screening protocols.
If an abnormality is detected during the screening, the team is equipped to organize rapid follow-up care, ensuring that patients move from detection to diagnosis and treatment without unnecessary delays.
Impact and Reach
The effectiveness of this initiative is already evident. Since its launch in November 2024, the Mammobile has performed more than 1,800 mammographies across the department. This significant number highlights the critical need for mobile health services in rural regions where traditional medical infrastructure may be sparse.
Schedule and Locations
The Mammobile operates from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Appointments are mandatory to ensure a smooth flow of patients.
May Dates
The unit will be available on May 11, 12, and 13 in the following communes:
- Saint-Ost
- Masseube
- Samatan
July Dates
The unit will return from July 15 to July 23, visiting:
- Riscle
- Bassoues
- Miélan
- Barcelonne-du-Gers
- Panjas
- Gondrin
- Vic-Fezensac
How to Book Your Appointment
Because the service is by appointment only, residents are encouraged to book as early as possible. You can schedule your screening by calling 05 62 67 22 00.
- Cost: Free for eligible participants.
- Eligibility: Women aged 50–74 who haven’t had a mammogram in two years.
- Service: Includes a digital mammography and a clinical exam.
- Booking: Call 05 62 67 22 00 to secure a time slot.
The Future of Rural Healthcare
The success of the Mammobile in Gers serves as a model for health equity. When we bring the clinic to the patient, we eliminate the logistical hurdles that often lead to skipped screenings and late-stage diagnoses. As we continue to integrate mobile technology into public health, the goal remains clear: ensuring that every woman, regardless of her zip code, has the opportunity for early detection and a healthier future.