Your Rights After a Mastectomy

MASTECTOMY: (from Greek: “breast”“cutting out”)  is the medical term for the surgical removal of one or both breasts, partially or completely. Wikipedia

If you have had a mastectomy you may be entitled to rights under the Womens Health And Cancer Rights Act of 1998 (WHCRA).

*Your health plan provide notice to you regarding your coverage rights under WHCRA when you enroll in the health plan and then once each year.

Under the WHCR, health plans, insurance companies and HMOs offering mastectomy coverage must provide coverage for certain services relating to the mastectomy as determined in consultation with the attending doctor and the patient. The coverage includes reconstruction of the breast on which the mastectomy was performed and surgery and reconstruction of the other breast to produce a symmetrical appearance, prostheses and treatment of physical complications of the mastectomy including lymphedema.

Your copays and deductibles still apply, but the WHCRA provides that most insurance/health plans, provide some coverage relating to a mastectomy. Some governmental plans and church plans may not be subjected to the WHCRA. So, check with your insurance provider to find out about your mastectomy benefits.  Typically, benefits help to pay for 2 to 4 bras a year and a breast prothesis every two years.

As providers with most insurance companies, the All About Women’s Health Boutique and it’s certified fitters are always willing to assist you.

All About Women’s Health Boutique, 33104 Grand River Ave., Farmington, MI 48226 248 477-2729

www.allaboutwomenshealthboutique.com

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