Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998

Under the Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 (effective October 21, 1998), employer-sponsored group health plans offering mastectomy coverage must also provide coverage for breast reconstruction in connection with the mastectomy.

Coverage must be provided for:

  • Reconstruction of the breast on which the mastectomy has been performed
  • Surgery and reconstruction of the other breast for symmetrical appearance
  • Prostheses and physical complications in all stages of mastectomy, including lymphedema therapy

All of EMU's group health care plans (Blue Cross/Blue Shield Community Blue PPO Plans, Traditional and Priority Health) provide coverage for the procedures described above, subject to the same deductibles and co-payment provisions as other benefits under the plans. You, in consultation with the attending physician, must determine the manner in which these services are performed.

If you have any questions, call your specific health care provider.

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