Australian women who have had a mastectomy because of breast cancer should start saving their receipts for breast prostheses. The Rudd Government is investing $31 million so that anyone purchasing a new or replacement external breast prosthesis after 1 July this year can claim up to $400 through Medicare Australia.

Around 12,000 Australian women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Breast prostheses help to restore body image and self-esteem after surgery for breast cancer.

Currently women obtain their 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 eligible women.

Women seeking reimbursement for breast prostheses can lodge claims from today and Medicare will start payment of the reimbursements from 1 December.

People can find information about the program, including eligibility criteria, a fact sheet and claim form, on the Medicare Australia website – or they can phone Medicare Australia on 132 011 (call charges may apply), or visit a Medicare Australia office.

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Advanced Breast Care brings to Australia the wonderfully handcrafted breast forms (breast prosthesis) and the beautiful range of post mastectomy pocketed bras manufactured by American Breast Care (ABC) of Marietta Georgia USA.