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.