For members facing a cancer diagnosis, the UFT offers a range of programs that combine compassionate support with access to top-quality clinical care. The 3D mammogram, a sophisticated new tool, is a recent addition to the mix.

3D mammograms

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among American women. A 3D mammogram is one of the most advanced forms of screening technology available. It can lead to early detection and treatment, with potentially lifesaving results.

UFT members with EmblemHealth GHI and HIP HMO insurance plans have access to 3D mammograms through RadNet/Lenox Hill Radiology. There are no out-of-pocket costs for breast cancer screening when services are delivered by a provider in EmblemHealth’s network. If you have another insurance plan, call the number on the back of your card.

These mammograms take only four seconds to scan each breast and use small, safe doses of radiation for the screenings. Please contact your primary care doctor or OB/GYN to discuss eligibility criteria. To schedule a 3D mammogram at RadNet/Lenox Hill Radiology, call 800-621-4844.

Time off for screening

Accommodations will be made for DOE employees who request time off for the purpose of cancer screening. Requests for such time off must be made in advance and in writing. Approval must be granted by the principal or their designee, as long as the request does not substantially disrupt the normal operation of the school.

MSK Direct

When you are dealing with cancer, making an informed decision about your treatment options is crucial. To guide you through this stressful period, the UFT Welfare Fund has forged a partnership with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the top-ranked cancer hospital in the Northeast, to provide members with emotional and clinical support through a program called MSK Direct.

By calling MSK Direct, UFT Welfare Fund members and their loved ones can speak directly with a dedicated MSK Direct care adviser, who will connect them to the most appropriate Memorial Sloan Kettering doctor. These doctors have one focus: providing compassionate cancer care to help each patient receive the best possible outcome.

The MSK Direct care team — made up of experienced nurses, social workers and care advisers — guides you through the process. They arrange prompt access to a doctor, often scheduling an appointment at your convenience within two business days. They also help you gather your medical records and meet you at your first visit.

All UFT Welfare Fund members, retirees and their family members (including spouses, domestic partners, children, parents and parents-in-law) have immediate access to MSK Direct at no cost beyond standard copays and deductibles, subject to health insurance coverage, for care at Memorial Sloan Kettering, an in-network provider for most city health plans. Out-of-pocket costs for treatment received at Memorial Sloan Kettering vary, so check your plan.

Call 844-350-5034, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., to access MSK Direct. No enrollment is necessary. For more information, see the FAQ.

Health and Cancer Helpline

Receiving a life-threatening medical diagnosis can be overwhelming. The UFT Welfare Fund’s Health and Cancer Helpline offers free, confidential phone support for UFT Welfare Fund members and their dependents who are diagnosed with a serious physical or mental illness. The helpline is staffed by full-time social workers and caseworkers who provide guidance, resources and compassionate support.

Services include:

• Confidential, immediate support: Helpline staff can answer questions, address concerns and offer guidance on health-related matters.
• Leave of absence guidance: Helpline staff can explain leave options and help UFT members determine the type of leave appropriate for a medical or mental health crisis.
• Health benefits assistance: Helpline staff can help members navigate the health care system by providing accurate information about health plans and the benefits and services to which members are entitled.

The Health and Cancer Helpline at 212-539-0515 is available year-round. During the school year, you can call Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Summer hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.