Insurance, Genetic testing & Elective Bilateral Mastectomy
Insurance, Genetic testing & Elective Bilateral Mastectomy Hi
Im wondering if anyone has any ideas on this…
My wife was just diagnosed with breast cancer, had surgery to remove 4.5cm sq lump which turned out to be DCIS and results show margins are clear and now radiotherapy is imminent. We have a small blip in finding enlarged lymph nodes but fingers crossed they are simply post op trauma.
My wifes mum had bilateral mastectomy and my wifes aunt died from breast cancer so the consultant suggested seeing a genetic specialist for testing and assessment of likelihood of recurrence. If the risk is high, it has been suggested that she could (possibly should) elect to have a bilateral mastectomy now in order to reduce chances of recurrence later.
So, my wife spoke to the insurers who told her that they would not cover the genetic investigation and would not cover elective bilateral surgery. She seemed to accept this as quite reasonable - as it was put to her in that way - ie: that it wasnt part of the cancer treatment and therefore not covered but that if she did get cancer again then they would pay for that. I dont think its reasonable at all.
So - now i will deal with them. My feeling is that this is just typical insurance company bluff since surely they cant be so callous as to prefer that she does get cancer again and simply treat that again. And surely, this is all part of the treatment of the initial cancer. Even on a strictly commercial basis (assuming that she didnt die next time) it woudl be cheaper for them to foot the bigger bill now and avoid multiple potential recurrances.
So if anyone knows what the insurance company should be doing in this situation or can otherwise offer any advice or ammunition i would love to hear from you.
Many thanks
Ashley
Dear Ashley Welcome to the forums, I have also posted your post ‘Insurance, Genetic testing and Elective Bilateral surgery’ in the ‘Family history and genetics’ room where I feel you may also receive valuable information and support from other forum members who may have had similar experiences.
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