Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act

Did you know that your plan provides benefits for mastectomy-related services? This is the case even if you weren't covered by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts at the time of the mastectomy. It's required by the Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998. If you are covered for a mastectomy, and elect breast reconstruction in connection with a mastectomy, then benefits are also provided for:

• All stages of reconstruction of the breast on which the mastectomy has been performed,
• Surgery and reconstruction of the other breast to produce a symmetrical appearance, and
• Prostheses and treatment of physical complications at all stages of the mastectomy, including lymphedema.
• Coverage will be provided as determined in consultation with you and your attending doctor. The costs that you pay for these services are the same as those you pay for other services in the same category. If you need to know more, just call the Member Service number on the front of your Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts ID card.