diep flap coding crisis

urgent update

Over the last year we have been educating our community about the current coding crisis that is putting DIEP Flap surgeries and access to breast reconstruction at risk.
As part of our advocacy initiative, The Breasties published a Peak article and social media campaign last month where we joined forces with Dr. Potter along with other patient advocacy organizations and pushed to get over 5,000 people to sign a letter to CMS urging them to reinstate the S code.
AND IT WORKED!
CMS announced last week that they are re-examining their decision to remove the S code that makes DIEP flap reconstruction inaccessible to patients. And they are seeking written feedback, from us, during their June 1st public agenda meeting.So now it is on our community, more than ever, to use our voices and take action.
We are asking ALL patients, their friends, families, colleagues, and medical professionals, to email CMS asking them to please restore the S codes without condition.
A crisis was created because these codes went away for patients. In order for patients to have access to breast reconstruction and particularly DIEP Flaps, we need these codes to be restored.
HOW TO CONTACT CMS:
Email CMS at: vog.shh.smc%40SCPCHExplain why you want the S codes restoredSend this email to CMS by June 1stPost an IG story about emailing CMS and tag 5 Breasties to do the same. Use hashtag #ReverseTheChange

join the community breast reconstruction database

Call to Action

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key resources

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Medical Coding Changes Put DIEP Reconstructions at Risk

This Peak article has everything you need to know about free flap breast reconstructions, medical coding and insurance.

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Community Breast Reconstruction Alliance

CBRA is dedicated to protecting people's access to breast reconstruction through insurance in the communities where they live. 

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Dr. Elisabeth Potter, Advocate and Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Elisabeth Potter is s board certified plastic surgeon with expertise in microsurgery. She's also a fierce advocate for the community.

learn more

PBS NewsHour

Health insurance companies are changing the way they reimburse doctors who perform a complex type of breast reconstruction surgery. 

CBS Mornings

On CBS Morning News, Dr. Potter discusses new policy change that can have an impact on breast cancer survivors

Advocacy commitment

The Breasties are committed to counteracting the gaps that exist in cancer care, support, research, and representation.