Lumpectomy
A lumpectomy is surgery to remove breast cancer, also known as breast conserving surgery. Learn about the process, recovery and side effects.
Hear from Professor Alexander Swarbrick on research into personalised treatment options
Cost of breast cancer treatments
Breast cancer patients may access medicines or medical services via a range of ways:
1) The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). If medicines or medical services are approved by the PBS then they are provided to patients at a Government subsidised price.
2) Private health insurance. Patients should contact their insurer for information whether prescribed medicines and medical services are covered by their insurer.
3) Compassionate/special access programs. In some circumstances. pharmaceutical companies may provide patients with discounted or free access to new medicines not yet approved by the PBS.
4) Clinical trials. Depending on eligibility, patients may gain early access to new medicines that have not yet received Therapeutics Goods Administration (TGA) approval or PBS listing. Clinical trials may be sponsored by pharmaceutical companies or initiated by researchers and health professionals.
5) Out of Pocket. In some cases, medicines and services that are not available by any of the above means may require out of pocket costs.
All the potential options for accessing breast cancer treatments should be discussed with your medical oncologist. Please visit here if you require any further information.
