The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA), which was passed in 1998, mandates that your insurance cover many of the products that you need after breast cancer surgery – products such as bras, forms, prosthesis.
The WHCRA also assures women that insurance will cover breast reconstruction after cancer surgery if they so choose. The WHCRA was signed into law Oct. 21, 1998. The United States Departments of Labor and Health and Human Services oversee this law.
If you have had a mastectomy or expect to have one, you may be entitled to special rights under the WHCRA. Under WHCRA, group health plans, insurance companies and health maintenance organizations (HMOs) offering mastectomy coverage also must provide coverage for certain services relating to the mastectomy in a manner determined in consultation with your attending physician and you.
This required coverage includes all stages of reconstruction of the breast on which the mastectomy was performed, surgery and reconstruction of the other breast to produce a symmetrical appearance, prostheses and treatment of physical complications of the mastectomy, including lymphedema. The United States Departments of Labor and Health and Human Services oversee this law.
After breast surgery, find a Certified Fitter-Mastectomy (CFM) to fit you with breast prosthetics and appropriate undergarments. Only CFMs can file insurance and keep records of your purchases and insurance payments. A CFM is a health care professional who is specifically trained to fit you with breast prosthetics, special undergarments and in helping you with post-mastectomy services.
If possible, talk with a CFM before your breast surgery. A good fitter will help you find bras and camisoles to wear immediately after surgery. These special undergarments have pockets for your drain (as well as pockets for temporary prosthetic material such as fiberfill). These bras are also comfortable to wear after your drain has been removed. Ask your health care team about CFMs located near you.
If you do not have health insurance, ask your physician and medical team about resources available at their office, your local cancer center and the local chapter of the American Cancer Society.
“Don’t let the challenges of surgery and chemotherapy get to you; this is not what defines you. In addition in having a great attitude, it’s important to focus on the positive – on getting better. Remember that this is just a stage in your life and the focus is to get rid of the cancer.
The following are important and beneficial to a healthy lifestyle and well being: Prayer, meditation, yoga, good nutrition, exercise, taking care of your skin and body, looking your best, exercising, enjoying your hobbies and talents and spending time with your friends and loved ones. Spa treatments, with your doctor’s permission, such as reflexology and massages and other forms of pampering may be treats you enjoy during treatment.