Episode 27: Is Access to DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction in Danger?

Access to DIEP flap breast reconstruction is in danger. Why? Because of coding changes to insurance, it may become out of reach financially for some women. This is the most advanced form of breast reconstruction available, and I felt it was time to address this concern.

I begin by sharing my own story and how I was positively affected by making the choice to have DIEP flap after a second breast cancer diagnosis. I am one of thousands of voices who need to be heard, to be honored as we work to reverse this decision so access to this type of surgery can continue to be available.

It was important for me to hear from the voice of a microsurgeon who is passionate about doing DIEP flaps and advanced microsurgical procedures to understand from her perspective why the coding changes are concerning to her for her patients. I invited my guest, Dr. Dhivya R. Srinivasa to address the topic in this episode of the DiepCJourney podcast.

We want the listeners to have resources to other entities who have set up advocacy pages so that you can share your voice, your story, so decision makers can see how important this choice in surgical options is for those affected by breast cancer. The following list is websites set up to help bring awareness to this coding change and what you can do to help.

Advocacy: Dhivya R. Srinivasa, MD, FACS

Advocacy: Jamie Zampell, MD

Advocacy: Dr. Elisabeth Potter, MD

PRMA: Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo, MD, FACS explanation of coding changes

Advocacy Page: PRMA Plastic Surgery