New York Law Requires Breast Reconstruction Discussion Before Cancer Surgery

Upon learning of a breast cancer diagnosis, most women are so overwhelmed that breast reconstruction is the farthest thing from their mind. Of course, eradicating the cancer is the most important concern, however, it's quickly becoming apparent that a large majority of breast cancer patients are not being briefed on their breast reconstruction options at all. Studies show alarming results, reporting that of every ten women diagnosed with breast cancer, only three are informed about breast reconstruction. These women are given so much information on treatment options for their breast cancer, yet important information on what to do after treatment is simply overlooked. This is a shame as breast reconstruction is a very essential component in the treatment process, particularly in the area of emotional healing. Creating a new breast after undergoing a mastectomy can help to restore a sense of wholeness and dramatically improve the quality of life for many breast cancer survivors.

Why an alarming 70% of breast cancer patients are not informed of their breast reconstruction options is not entirely certain. Speculation points to doctors who may fail to mention or discourage procedures in which they do not have the training to perform. This concern over women not being properly informed of their options has prompted the passage of a new law in New York that requires hospitals to inform all breast cancer patients of breast reconstruction options. After suffering cancer and fighting to survive, women deserve to know about any option that will improve their quality of life. The truth is that we should not need a law that mandates this, it should just be common practice. Some may still not opt to have reconstructive surgery, but many more may choose to do so if they know it is covered by their insurance.

Reports show that a disproportionate number of women who are at a socioeconomic disadvantage do not have breast reconstruction surgery after a mastectomy, this includes women who make less money, are less educated or are of a minority group. Many are unaware of breast reconstruction as an option, and those who are do not know that it is covered by Medicaid and Medicare insurance programs.

The goal of this law is to make sure this demographic of women are no longer left in the dark on procedures that have the ability to vastly improve their lives after a difficult battle with cancer. Prior to performing cancer surgery, New York hospitals and doctors will now be required to discuss the options for breast reconstruction with their patients, along with insurance coverage and where they can go for the procedure.

Breast reconstruction offers women the chance to have a better life after breast cancer, to feel more balanced and whole once again. The benefits it has for women after breast cancer are tremendous and every single breast cancer survivor deserves to know about it.