External Breast Prostheses Reimbursement Program
The Australian Government has committed $31 million over five years to provide a reimbursement of up to $400 for both new and replacement external breast prostheses for Australian women who have had a mastectomy as a result of breast cancer. The program aims to ensure national consistency in the provision of support towards the cost of breast prostheses.
Claiming the reimbursement
What am I able to claim?
You can claim a reimbursement for new and/or replacement external breast prostheses purchased from 1 July 2008.
Who can claim the reimbursement?
All women who are permanent residents of Australia, have a current Medicare entitlement and have had a mastectomy as a result of breast cancer are eligible to claim the reimbursement. No timeframes apply as to when the mastectomy was performed.
How much is the reimbursement?
A reimbursement of up to $400 for each new or replacement external breast prosthesis can be claimed, depending on the cost of the prosthesis. This limit applies for each prosthesis for each breast.
Can I claim other items?
The program does not cover other purchases such as bras, mastectomy swimwear or internal prostheses.
How do I claim the reimbursement?
Your completed claim form, together with your original receipt that includes a description of the purchase may be handed in at your local Medicare office or sent to:
Medicare Australia
Reply Paid 9822
Perth WA 6848
How often can I claim a reimbursement?
There must be a period of two years or more between the purchase dates of prostheses in order to make a further claim for reimbursement for replacement prostheses. This timeframe applies regardless of the amount originally reimbursed under the program.
How will the reimbursement be paid?
All reimbursements are made by Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) to the bank account nominated on the claim form. We will send a statement to your nominated postal address listing the amount deposited into your account which can be kept for taxation purposes.
Exceptions
If you currently receive financial assistance from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) you should claim your entitlement through DVA.
Can I claim the reimbursement if I have received a refund from my private health fund or financial assistance from a state or territory program?
Yes, if you received less than the full purchase cost and if the refund or financial assistance is less than the reimbursement limit. The amount of your reimbursement will be reduced by the amount already received.
For more information
Please note, this information has been sourced from www.medicareaustralia.gov.au. For more information please visit this website. |
