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annieeee27's avatar
annieeee27
Member
2 years ago

Continuing my ongoing endocrine treatment in Melbourne with insurance waiting period?

Hi i was diagnosed with stage II Triple Positive breast cancer at 29 years old four years ago, went through chemo+radiation+targeted drug therapy and has been on endocrine treatment since, I'm from China and currently trying to pursue a masters degree in Melbourne, but the overseas student health cover has a 12-month waiting period for pre-existing conditions, which means I won't be covered for the first year of my endocrine treatment. Here are my questions:

How should I go about it after I arrive in Melbourne? 

To continue my injections of Zoladex, how much would it cost out of pocket? 

Thanks in advance for your help!!

  • arpie's avatar
    arpie
    Member
    2 years ago
    Is there any way that you can have your scripts filled for the Aromasin in China & have a family member post them to you?  That would just leave you with the Zoladex injections to pay for here?

    Where will you be living when here?  Perhaps, start writing to nearby oncologists to see if they would take you on as a patient when you DO arrive.  Your Onc in China should also be able to look them up & give you a referral?

    Most health professionals will be going on Leave from today until mid January 2024 - but their offices would be monitoring any emails coming thru ...... and should get back to you.   I think establishing a relationship with an Onc as soon as you can - would be to your benefit.  They may also be able to answer some your questions .... 

    I do not know if there is a reciprocal arrangement with China re seeing medical specialists/Drs here .... so there would probably be fees there too.  

    Take care and all the best
  • annieeee27's avatar
    annieeee27
    Member
    2 years ago
    Thank you for your reply and help!

    I'm looking to arrive in Melbourne in late Feb 2024, so haven't got a chance to see an Oncologist yet, my cover plan is with Bupa, which stated very clearly that there's a waiting period. And for the other meds, I'm taking exemestane (Aromasin) with Zoladex.
  • arpie's avatar
    arpie
    Member
    2 years ago
    I am So sorry to see you are in this predicament ..... When do you arrive in Australia? 

    Have you been an overseas student here before? 

    Who is your Overseas Health Cover with?  Some are more expensive than others .... 
    https://www.google.com/search?q=overseas+student+health+cover&oq=overseas+student

    Have you arranged to see an Oncologist when you arrive in Melbourne?  They may have some ideas with helping you (eg on compassionate grounds?)

    What other meds are you on, other than Zoladex?

    take care & wishing you all the best