New Screening Rules Start January 1

The Women’s Preventive Services Initiative (WPSI) has new recommendations to make screenings easier and accessible. The updates start January 1, 2026.

Why it Matters

Early detection improves outcomes and reduces costly late-stage care:

• Breast cancer: Mammogram for average-risk patients at ages 40–50, then every one to two years
• Cervical cancer: Screen average-risk patients ages 21–65 every three to five years

What’s Changing

Patient navigation services help patients access care—especially those with complex conditions like cancer. Navigators guide patients in person, online, or both:

• Personalized care planning
• Help navigating the health system
• Referrals for language support, transportation, social services
• Patient education

Cervical and breast cancer screenings include patient navigation services. Breast cancer screenings also include more imaging options (magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasounds, and mammograms) and pathology evaluations (such as biopsies and consultations).

Explore More

Check out WPSI resources for details on the updated recommendations:

• Breast cancer screening for women at average risk
• Screening for cervical cancer