The Women's Health and Cancer Rights Acts protects women who wish to have breast reconstruction after a mastectomy.
The Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act was signed into law on October 21, 1998, protecting women who wish to have their breasts reconstructed after a mastectomy. This federal law mandates that all insurance companies that cover mastectomies must also cover breast reconstruction.
Who's Covered by WHCRA?
The WHCRA protects all persons whose health plans began on or after October 21, 1998. This includes health plans, health insurance companies and HMO's that cover the surgical and medical costs of a mastectomy.
What WHCRA Covers
While deductibles and co-payments may be applied, under the WHCRA, the health insurance plan must cover breast reconstruction for breasts removed by a mastectomy, surgery to make breasts symmetrical after a mastectomy, any breast prostheses need before or during reconstruction and all physical complications that may occur during the stages of the mastectomy.
Overriding Law
WHCRA is a federal law, therefore, it overrides any state law regarding breast reconstruction as long as the insurance company covers mastectomy.
Notification
Since the WHCRA is mandated by the federal government, not only will your health plan be aware of the law, but they are required to provide notice of the benefits. This notification may be included on the health insurer's website, newsletter, insert or any method of communication of their choice.
