A few weeks ago, I was put in contact with the Labor State Member for Lara. Although Ella George was lovely to speak with, the Minister’s response was disappointing and did not address the concerns raised. Please find her response below.

Thank you once again for your email in relation to the cost of breast cancer diagnostic testing.

Apologies for the delay in response as I awaited information from the Minister’s office in relation to the matter. As you are aware the concerns you raised fall within the responsibility of the Minister for Health, and below is the advice I have received from her office.

A cancer diagnosis and treatment can present significant financial challenges. Whilst costs can be reduced by receiving care in public cancer services, there can still be some out-of-pocket costs.

The Victorian cancer plan 2024-2028 aims to support people with cancer and their carers to access high quality treatment and care throughout the cancer journey.

The Victorian Government is committed to delivering cancer care that corresponds to the nationally endorsed Optimal care pathways (OCP), which underpin the importance of informed decision-making and financial consent.

The Optimal care pathway for people with breast cancer provides guidance for best care, including prevention, early detection, treatment and recovery. Discussion of diagnosis/ treatment costs and out of pocket expenses are included in checklists in the OCP.

For women aged 50-74, regular mammograms are the most effective way to detect breast cancer early, when treatment is most successful.

BreastScreen Victoria is a population-based screening program, which provides free mammograms every two years to detect cancers that are too small to feel. This service is also available to women over 40 years with no symptoms. BreastScreen Victoria offers free follow-up tests at their assessment centres if screening mammogram results are abnormal.

For people experiencing a suspicious sign or symptom, the OCP for breast cancer recommends that GPs should refer patients to a breast assessment clinic. This referral should be made in consultation with the patient after considering the clinical care needed, cost implications, waiting periods, location and facilities, including discussing the patient’s preference for health care through the public or the private system.

A number of Victorian public hospitals offer comprehensive breast services. Specific referral criteria and guidelines are available on the Department of Health’s website.

It should be noted that prior to referral, it is expected that the GP will have ordered diagnostic tests which may include mammogram or ultrasound.

If a mammogram is needed for diagnostic purposes or due to symptoms (rather than as part of the routine screening program), there may be out-of-pocket costs, even within the public system.

While this may not be the case for major metropolitan public hospitals, radiology services in outer metropolitan or regional areas may be accessed in arrangements with private providers.

Medicare provides a rebate for mammograms, however the full cost can exceed this rebate, especially at private imaging clinics, resulting in out-of-pocket expenses.

Depending on personal preference, women diagnosed with breast cancer are encouraged to explore their options including accessing bulk billing imaging centres that will not result in an ‘out-of-pocket’ gap fee. Women with breast cancer are eligible to re-enter the BreastScreen Victoria program five years after initial diagnosis, with approval from their treating doctor.

The cost and impact of a diagnosis and treatment of cancer can contribute to what is already an overwhelming time for an individual and their family.

Specialist Breast Services in public hospitals have access to Breast Care Nurses and Social workers who can assess supportive care needs including financial needs.

The Cancer Council’s 131120 telephone support service offers resources and support for managing the financial impact of cancer, including information on financial assistance programs and grants.

I trust this information was of use to you. Please do not hesitate to reach out if there is any other issues with which I can be of assistance.