Preventive Care, Mammogram Bus Schedule, and more

August 26 is National Got Checked Day, a reminder to take charge of your health by scheduling recommended preventive screenings and routine checkups. Established by Project Alive, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting preventive healthcare and early detection, National Got Checked Day encourages individuals to be proactive about their health rather than waiting for symptoms to appear.

Whether it’s scheduling your annual wellness exam, staying current on cancer screenings, monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol, or completing other age-appropriate preventive care, getting checked is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your long-term health. Early detection often leads to more treatment options, better outcomes, and greater peace of mind.

At Missouri State University, we’re committed to supporting the health and well-being of our employees and their families. National Got Checked Day is the perfect opportunity to review your preventive care needs, schedule any overdue appointments, and take advantage of the health benefits available through the University.

Preventive Care Is Covered

Many preventive services are covered at 100% under both the Base and Buy-Up medical plans when you use an in-network provider. Preventive care is designed to help detect health concerns before symptoms develop and may include:

Annual wellness exams
Blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes screenings
Colorectal cancer screenings
Cervical cancer screenings
Skin cancer checks
Prostate cancer screenings
Mammograms
Recommended immunizations

Talk with your healthcare provider about which preventive services are appropriate based on your age, family history, and personal health needs.

Breast Health Matters

Regular mammograms remain one of the most effective tools for the early detection of breast cancer. Detecting breast cancer early often leads to more treatment options and improved outcomes.

Both the Base and Buy-Up medical plans cover preventive mammograms at 100% when performed by an in-network provider. Missouri law also requires health plans to cover medically necessary in-network diagnostic mammograms without cost-sharing when additional imaging is needed due to symptoms or previous findings.

Perform Monthly Breast Self-Checks

Knowing what is normal for your body can help you recognize changes early. While breast self-checks do not replace routine mammograms or clinical breast exams, they are an important part of breast health awareness.

Contact your healthcare provider if you notice:

A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
Changes in the size or shape of the breast
Skin dimpling, puckering, or swelling
Redness, rash, or unusual skin changes
Nipple discharge (other than breast milk)
A nipple that turns inward or changes appearance
Persistent pain in one area of the breast

If you notice any of these changes, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider.

Convenient On-Campus Mammography

Missouri State University offers convenient on-campus mammography opportunities throughout the year, making it easier to stay current with this important preventive screening.

Springfield Campus

Mercy Mobile Mammography
Located in front of Freudenberger House

Upcoming Dates

September 24, 2026
October 26, 2026
November 19, 2026

To schedule: 417-820-2790

Eligibility

Women age 40 or older
At least one year since your last mammogram
No current breast concerns
Breast implants can be accommodated (please notify the scheduler)
Must be able to enter the mobile unit using steps and stand unassisted
Appointments typically last 15–30 minutes using the same equipment and staff as the Mercy Breast Center

Mtn. Grove (Near Campus)

Ozarks Healthcare Mammogram Bus
📍500 E. 19th St.

Upcoming Dates

September 10
October 8

To schedule: 417-257-5912

West Plains Campus

Ozarks Healthcare Mammogram Bus
Located in the Lybyer parking lot

Upcoming Date

December 3, 2026

To schedule: 417-257-5912

Eligibility

Women age 40 or older
No mammogram within the past year
Not pregnant or breastfeeding
No breast implants or current breast concerns (pain, lumps, discharge, or discoloration)
No previous diagnosis of breast cancer

Tip: Appointments fill quickly, so early scheduling is encouraged.

Earn Additional Wellness Benefits

If you’re enrolled in one of the University’s voluntary insurance plans, completing a preventive screening may also qualify you for an annual wellness benefit.

Critical Illness Insurance

Eligible participants can receive a $100 annual wellness benefit for completing an eligible preventive screening, including a mammogram.

UNUM Hospital Indemnity Insurance

Eligible participants can receive a $50 annual wellness benefit for completing an eligible preventive screening, including a mammogram.

If you’re not currently enrolled in these plans, you may elect coverage during Open Enrollment (November 1–December 1) or within 31 days of experiencing a qualifying life event.

Take the First Step

National Got Checked Day is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a reminder to invest in your future health. Whether you schedule your annual physical, complete recommended preventive screenings, or make an appointment for your mammogram, every step you take today can help protect your health tomorrow.

Your health is one of your greatest assets. Take a few minutes this August to get checked, stay informed, and make preventive care a priority.

National “Got Checked” Day: Make Preventive Care a Priority