Rudd Government improves support for Women with breast cancer

‘Cancer treatment can often leave painful reminders long after cancer has been beaten,’ Ms Macklin said.

 

‘For women who have undergone a mastectomy, access to breast prostheses can contribute to improved body image and self esteem, which can play an important role in recovery’.

 

‘Providing access to these sorts of treatments is essential in helping women address the physical and emotional scars left by breast cancer’.

 

From July 1 2008, women requiring a new or replacement external breast prosthesis will be able to claim up to $400 through Medicare Australia. Women who have had a mastectomy because of breast cancer should retain the receipt for their breast prosthesis, which can then be claimed at Medicare.

 

Currently women obtain breast prostheses from a number of sources, and arrangements vary between the states and territories. The new program will allow for a nationally-coordinated approach that provides financial assistance to all eligible women, regardless of which state they live in.

 

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Australia, with around 12,000 Australian women diagnosed with breast cancer each year. More than 2,640 women die from the disease in a single year, making it the leading cause of cancer-related death in females.

 

Allison Piper, a Viewbank resident from the Breast Cancer Network Australia, said this program would make a real difference to women who have survived breast cancer.

 

‘I’m aware of women who are going without prosthesis because of the cost. Anything that takes the pressure off these women is certainly very welcome’ Ms Piper said.

 

‘It’s very important for women to be able to maintain their self esteem. It can be very debilitating to feel that people can tell that you’ve had a mastectomy, so it’s important that women have access to these sorts of services’ she said.

 

More information about the program, including eligibility criteria, a fact sheet and claim form, can be accessed by calling Medicare on 132 011, logging onto www.medicareaustralia.gov.au or by visiting a Medicare Australia office.