UNC Health Rex launches new mobile mammography unit in 21 counties

May 6, 2026 - 02:04

A new UNC Health Rex mobile unit aims to bring mammograms directly to patients across North Carolina. The specially equipped vehicle will travel to 21 counties, offering breast cancer screenings to women who may face barriers to traditional clinic visits.

The mobile mammography unit is designed to reach rural and underserved communities where access to regular screening can be limited. By parking at community centers, workplaces, and health fairs, the unit eliminates the need for long drives to a fixed hospital location. The goal is to catch breast cancer early, when treatment is most effective.

Inside the vehicle, patients will find a private, comfortable space with state-of-the-art digital mammography equipment. The process mirrors a standard clinic visit, with results reviewed by UNC Health Rex radiologists. Appointments can be scheduled in advance, and the unit accepts most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. For uninsured patients, financial assistance is available.

This initiative addresses a persistent health disparity. According to the American Cancer Society, women in rural areas are less likely to receive regular mammograms, leading to later-stage diagnoses. The mobile unit's schedule will rotate through counties, with stops announced on a rolling basis. UNC Health Rex officials hope the service will increase screening rates and save lives by making prevention more convenient. The first stops are expected to begin within the next few weeks.