Nearly four years ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer. ( My mother died of breast cancer 42 years ago at age 54 and also suffered terribly with severe lymphedema) Just as I was finishing chemotherapy and starting radiation therapy my husband was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Despite two stem-cell transplants, he died a year and a half ago. I was diagnosed with lymphedema last fall and began treatment just after I went on Medicare and off Cobra. I was shocked and dismayed that Medicare did not cover the night compression garment or the arm sleeve or glove that I am required to wear day and night. The cost of these compression devices puts an enormous burden on my finances and will continue to do so. Cancer survivors have enough of a struggle to just go forward every day without dealing with no insurance coverage. Even if you have Part B, Supplimental Coverage “F” and RX drug coverage (all that is available), still NOTHING is covered. This is like saying “You have a broken leg, but we won’t give you a cast!”
Please change this law and give lymphedema sufferers the care they need. Preventing this disease from progressing to cellulitis, hospitalizations, disability and possible death would be far more cost effective in the long run. The risk is so great that even if a patient can’t afford the compression sleeves, the patient MUST have them. Wrapping in bandages, even for a capable person, DOES NOT WORK for daily wear.
So please, please, PLEASE, change this ruling.
