I had breast cancer 2 years ago , 5 weeks of radiation therapy , annual mamograms since . now i found another lump. cant get a bone density scan till July ( its done every 2 years) may not get the mammogram till next year , my medicare funding has run out it seems

In the past, I've just dug my heels in. I always ask before I have whatever the scan or test is, and if I'm told they won't bulkbill and the gap will be $ whatever, I've simply said, "Well sorry, I simply can't afford that. I'll either not be able to pay my rent, or buy food for the next month, or I'll have to go and purchase a pair of black fishnet stockings and find me a streetlight every night for the next week". I've never had to pay extra...the receptionist has always either spoken to their supervisor, or has made a call and then told me that they will bulk bill me.

Hi@tisme, have you seen your GP? I hope they would arrange a mammogram and ultrasound immediately. I would insist on it. Have you asked your GP,?

It's terrible that so many things come down to funding. We should be able to access what we need when we need it. Thinking of you @tisme.

@tisme it is so frustrating, despite most people saying we have a great health care system. If you pay, you get timely medical treatment, it sure does stink. I wish I could offer words of comfort, but unfortunately we have a 2 tier health system, as do most countries. Perhaps speak to the social worker at a hospital and see if they can organise waivering the out of pocket fee? Whilst we have to be our own advocate, I think it would be good if you can get someone to help bat for you, don't suffer in silence get someone on board to help support you. When it comes to finances it isn't just a case of speaking up for what tests you need, it is needing someone to step and assist in some funding to get the tests you really need. Don't be dismissed, just because you don't have the money to get the tests, that is really not good enough, you deserve the best health care, just as everyone does.

Medicare runs out | BCNA Online Network

tisme
Member
4 years ago
im on a carer pittance i dont think i should have to
tisme
Member
4 years ago
i think so i dont know
FLClover
Member
4 years ago
Would you need to pay for an ultrasound too?
tisme
Member
4 years ago
u get annual mams for 5 years post cancer treatment ive had mine in feb all clear ............... i found a lump ............ i dont know what it is i cant find out i dont have the money to pay
iserbrown
Member
4 years ago
Screening mammograms are free every two years to all Australian women aged 40 and over who do not have any signs or symptoms of breast disease. Women who have been referred for a mammogram by their doctor may have to pay a fee.
tisme
Member
4 years ago
so i cant have another mamogram till next year by which time if it is cancer ...............
iserbrown
Member
4 years ago
Hopefully this link will give clarity and questions to ask your GP

"Mammography | healthdirect" https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/amp/article/mammography
tisme
Member
4 years ago
mum /dad and brother died with cancer , seems I will to
FLClover
Member
4 years ago
This is wrong on so many levels 😞
Locksley
Member
4 years ago
It's terrible that so many things come down to funding. We should be able to access what we need when we need it. Thinking of you @tisme.