Amend the WHCRA

Adding the three words “and chest wall” to the WHCRA, will ensure patient access to the post-mastectomy option of their choice.

The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 requires insurance to cover breast reconstruction (implants, tissue flaps, fat grafting, etc.) but not chest wall reconstruction (aesthetic flat closure, aka AFC). This loophole allows insurance providers to deny coverage of AFC as a “cosmetic” procedure and leave patients with rippling folds of excess skin and tissue. This result is traumatizing and unacceptable.

AFC leaves a smooth breastless scar, makes wearing a prosthesis more comfortable and gives a woman dignity. About 50% of mastectomy patients choose AFC, or go flat after removing implant reconstruction or failed flaps.

AFC is by far the least expensive reconstructive option compared to implants and tissue based reconstruction where costs can range between $20,000 – $100,000. It only takes a short amount of time for the surgeon to remove excess skin and tissue to contour a flat chest wall. However, the medical team and facility must be compensated for this extra time to motivate surgeons to continue to offer AFC to their patients.

Tell congress that you support breast cancer patients’ right to AFC and dignity.

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