Each year, health plans like ours report performance on national quality standards known as HEDIS^® (Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set). HEDIS^® measures are like a report card for health plans, showing how well they provide recommended care and preventive services. The main HEDIS^® measures for cancer prevention include:

• Breast Cancer Screening
• Cervical Cancer Screening
• Colorectal Cancer Screening

USFHP covers all three. Here is what you need to know: 

Breast Cancer Screening:

Regular mammograms help detect breast cancer early, before signs or symptoms develop. 

Who should be screened: Women ages 40–74.

Family history considerations: If you have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) who had breast cancer, your provider may recommend starting screening before age 40, screening more often, or adding other imaging like MRI.

What this means for you: If you’re 40 or older – or younger with a family history – talk with your provider about a screening schedule that fits your personal risk. Clear results and timely follow-up are essential, especially if you have increased risk due to family history

Cervical Cancer Screening:

Routine cervical cancer screenings – including Papsmear and HPV screening – identify early cell changes before they become cancer.

Who should be screened: Women ages 21–64.

Family history considerations: Unlike other cancers, cervical cancer is not typically hereditary. However, a family history of cervical cancer may prompt your provider to recommend closer monitoring or sticking closely to recommended screening intervals.

What this means for you: Regular screening is still important even without family history, because most cervical cancers are caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), not genetics.

Colorectal Cancer Screening:

Screenings – including colonoscopy, stool-based tests, CT colonography, and flexible sigmoidoscopy – can prevent colorectal cancer or detect it early when treatment is most effective.

Who should be screened: Adults ages 45-75.

Family history considerations: If you have a first-degree relative with colorectal cancer, your provider may recommend starting screening before age 45 and repeating certain tests more frequently.

What this means for you: If you’re 45 or older, or younger with a family history, ask your provider which screening option is right for you.

Preventive screenings save lives and USFHP is here to help. Ask your provider for a personalized screening plan based on your individual risk.

Questions? Call 1.800.818.8589