Medicare and private health cover

What does Medicare cover for breast reconstruction? What do you need to consider if you choose to be treated privately?

The two different systems in Australia – public and private – can be confusing, and potential financial costs of reconstruction can cause anxiety. It can also be an awkward discussion to have with your team.

In this episode Luan talks to Specialist Breast Surgeon and President of BreastSurgANZ, Dr Melanie Walker, about how to navigate finances.

Luan and Dr Melanie talk about whether Medicare covers:

• All types of reconstruction
• Elective mastectomy
• Revision surgery
• Delayed reconstruction
• Liposuction and fat grafting
• Nipple reconstruction

Luan and Dr Melanie also talk in general about private cover, including:

• What to ask your specialist’s team
• What might not be covered
• What your quote may include
• Negotiating costs

Links for this podcast:

• AMA Guide for patients
• BreastSurgANZ
• Cancer Council resource

Where you can find Luan:

• Instagram
• Website
• LinkedIn

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If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636.

Note: this podcast talks about what is covered by Medicare. What you have access to and what resources and services are available to you, including waiting times, can differ depending on where you live. And things change. This information was correct at the time of recording (3rd July 2023).

The information in this podcast does not constitute medical advice. For personalised medical advice you should seek a consult with a FRACS qualified surgeon.

Post-production ‘shine’ by Paddy @ Goosing Sounds Ltd (UK)

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