Does the Military Pay for Breast Implants?
The question of whether the military pays for breast implants is a common one that many women serving in the military may be wondering. The answer is not straightforward, as it depends on various factors, including the individual’s circumstances, military branch, and type of implant. In this article, we will delve into the details and provide a comprehensive answer to this question.
What is the military’s policy on breast implants?
The military’s policy on breast implants is not uniform across all branches, but it generally follows federal guidelines and regulations. In 2012, the Department of Defense (DoD) updated its medical policy on breast reconstruction to include coverage for breast augmentation surgery for women who experience breast tissue damage or displacement due to military service-related injuries.
Who is eligible for breast implant coverage?
To be eligible for breast implant coverage, a woman must meet the following criteria:
- Have suffered breast tissue damage or displacement due to military service-related injuries
- Undergo breast reconstruction surgery
- Have a valid Service-Connected Disability Rating
Types of breast injuries eligible for coverage
Some examples of breast injuries eligible for coverage include:
• Breast tissue displacement: Displacement of the breast tissue due to explosive blasts, bullet wounds, or other trauma
• Breast tissue fragmentation: Fragmentation of breast tissue due to shrapnel or other debris
• Breast burns: Burns to the breasts resulting from fires or explosions
• Breast trauma: Trauma to the breasts resulting from assault, accident, or other injuries
How is breast implant coverage processed?
The process for processing breast implant coverage varies by military branch. Here are the general steps:
• File a claim: The service member or her healthcare provider must file a claim with the military health system, providing medical records and documentation supporting the request for coverage
• Medical review: The medical review board will review the claim and determine whether the breast injury meets the coverage criteria
• Insurance approval: If the claim is approved, the service member’s insurance will pay for the breast reconstruction surgery and any associated costs
• Appeals process: If the claim is denied, the service member can appeal the decision and provide additional medical evidence to support her case
Costs not covered
While the military may pay for breast implant coverage under certain circumstances, there may be additional costs not covered by insurance. These could include:
• Cost of living expenses: These expenses may include travel and accommodation costs, as well as lost income due to time off work for treatment
• Non-cosmetic procedures: The military may not cover procedures that are considered non-medically necessary or cosmetic, such as breast lift or asymmetry correction
• Follow-up care: Services such as mammograms and follow-up appointments may not be covered under the military’s health insurance plan
Conclusion
In summary, the military may pay for breast implants under specific circumstances, such as military service-related injuries. However, the process for obtaining coverage is complex and requires detailed documentation and medical evidence to support the claim. Additionally, there may be additional costs not covered by insurance, such as cost of living expenses and non-cosmetic procedures.
Table: Summary of Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Criteria | |
|---|---|
| Breast Tissue Damage | Breast tissue damage or displacement due to military service-related injuries |
| Service-Connected Disability | Valid Service-Connected Disability Rating |
| Medical Treatment | Breast reconstruction surgery covered under military health insurance |
| Insurance Approval | Required for coverage approval |
Bullets: Additional Facts
• Not limited to active-duty personnel: Breast implant coverage may be available to Reserve and National Guard members as well.
• May require Congressional approval: In some cases, breast implant coverage may require Congressional approval or passage of specific legislation.
• Private insurance coverage: Depending on the service member’s private insurance plan, there may be additional coverage or benefits available.
Contact Information
For more information on breast implant coverage under the military’s health insurance plan, service members can contact their healthcare provider or Military Health System (MHS) representative.
