See, Test and Treat offers free cancer screenings for uninsured, underinsured

By Annie Oeth

JA Guest Writer

As operations director of Crossroads Ministries in Canton, Rena Pafford encourages women participating in the post-prison nonprofit to apply for free cancer screenings at the University of Mississippi Medical Center during See, Test and Treat. In 2025, she decided to apply, too. 

That’s where her breast cancer journey began.  

“Everything else was fine,” she said, “but they saw something on my mammogram. This is why cancer screenings are so important.” 

Hosted by the UMMC Cancer Center and Research Institute and the College of American Pathologists, See, Test and Treat will provide cancer screenings for uninsured and underinsured men and women April 11 at the UMMC Pavilion, located on the UMMC campus at 1410 East Woodrow Wilson Ave. 

Those interested can apply online or call 601-815-3572 to determine eligibility. Callers will be prompted to leave a voicemail. After reviewing information, UMMC representatives will let applicants know if they qualify for free cancer screenings.

“We’re making a difference in Mississippians’ health by offering these cancer screenings, which can be lifesaving,” said Bethany Sabins, a nurse practitioner in gynecological oncology who has been part of See, Test and Treat since 2017, its first year at UMMC. “When cancer is detected early before it has spread, outcomes are improved.” 

Pafford, of Ridgeland, returned to the UMMC Cancer Center and Research Institute for care, undergoing a biopsy, then lumpectomy, radiation and the anti-cancer drug Letrozole. She continues to see CCRI doctors for follow-up care. 

“Early detection gave me options and hope, and that’s why programs like this matter so much,” she said. “They truly save lives.” 

The inaugural See, Test and Treat at UMMC started with free screenings for breast and cervical cancers, but tests have expanded to cover additional testing for men and women. 

Free cancer screenings offered this year include: 

Cervical cancer screening (Pap test), ages 21-64

Mammogram (age appropriate), ages 40-64

Oral cancer screening – ages 21-64 

Lung screening – ages 50-80, current or former smokers, are eligible for low-dose CT screening exams.

Light refreshments, health information and access to community resources will be available. 

Results from See, Test and Treat screenings will be provided promptly, and clinicians will be on site to discuss any findings and answer questions related to follow-up care.