In recent years, technological advancements have enabled the creation and precise fitting of custom breast prostheses. Custom prostheses are typically made from higher-end silicone products produced in a unique mold designed to fit the chest like a puzzle piece. Unlike other prosthetic devices, custom breast prosthetics are not currently covered by Medicare.

The bipartisan Breast Cancer Patient Equity Act (S. 3069) would ensure breast cancer patients and survivors who have experienced a mastectomy are able to access custom breast prosthetics under Medicare.

Following passage of the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998), many private insurers and group health plans began to provide coverage for custom fabricated breast prostheses. However, Medicare does not provide reimbursement and denies claims as “not medically necessary.” Since the Medicare program does not provide reimbursement for custom prostheses, many private insurance companies have also begun to limit their reimbursement for them.

“Battling breast cancer is a traumatizing experience for the many women who go through it – and right now, many who undergo mastectomies have poor choices when it comes to reconstructive surgeries,” said Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK). “This bill will not just expand coverage under Medicare, but it will also aid in the emotional and physical healing for women who battled breast cancer.”

Please use our pre-drafted letters to urge your representative to co-sponsor and support the Breast Cancer Patient Equity Act. If they have already sponsored or co-sponsored the bill, you can send a message of thanks.