Good News!

There is exciting legislation at both the federal and Alabama state levels that could improve access to custom breast prostheses.

Currently, Medicare covers standard "off-the-shelf" breast forms, but custom, non-surgical breast prostheses are generally not covered. In fact, the breast is currently the only body part for which Medicare does not routinely cover a custom prosthesis.

Custom breast prostheses are individually designed to provide:

*A lightweight, comfortable fit

*A natural appearance

*A skin-tone match

*Improved balance and confidence

*A prosthesis made specifically for your unique body

Help Protect Access to Custom Breast Prostheses

Your voice can make a difference.

Women who have undergone a mastectomy deserve access to the prosthesis option that best meets their medical and personal needs. Federal and state legislation has been introduced to help close this gap in coverage.

Federal Legislation

H.R. 4779 – Breast Cancer Patient Equity Act

S. 3069 – Breast Cancer Patient Equity Act

These bipartisan bills would expand Medicare coverage to include custom-fabricated breast prostheses, giving breast cancer survivors access to a personalized option that can significantly improve comfort and quality of life.

Alabama Legislation

HB 453

This Alabama bill would require coverage for custom, non-surgical breast prostheses, including lightweight prostheses that are custom-designed to match an individual's skin tone and body.

Take Action

Your personal story is powerful.

Please take just a few minutes to contact your elected officials and ask them to support this important legislation.

Find your elected officials:

U.S. House of Representatives
https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative

U.S. Senate
https://www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm

Alabama Legislature
https://alison.legislature.state.al.us

When you contact your representatives, consider sharing:

• Your experience with breast cancer or mastectomy.

• Why having access to a custom breast prosthesis matters to you.

• How improved insurance coverage would improve your quality of life.

• Your request that they support legislation expanding access to custom breast prostheses.

Every phone call, email, and personal story helps lawmakers understand the importance of ensuring breast cancer survivors have access to the products that best meet their individual needs.

Carol R. Cauthen
1982 Breast Cancer Survivor
Owner/Creator,  Touching You, Inc.