Public Hospital Reconstruction

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SandyAust
SandyAust Member Posts: 393
edited May 2015 in Australians and New Zealanders Affected by Breast Cancer

Hello Everyone,

I have been on these boards a long time but don't post much. I had breast cancer almost eleven years ago at 36 years of age when my twin boys were four. I had a mastectomy without reconstruction. Just before Christmas I asked my GP for a referral to have a recon in the public system. I am currently on the waiting list to get a consult which means I am not on the waiting list for surgery yet. I live in Brisbane so I will go to the PA. I am not concerned by the wait as it took me more than ten years to come to this decision. I still don't know if i want to go ahead. I would appreciate hearing about the experiences of others who have used the public system.

Thanks Sandy

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  • aussie12
    aussie12 Member Posts: 462
    edited May 2015


    Hi Sandy

    I've had 3 surgeries here in Perth all in public hospitals.

    If you go to www.bcaus.org.au go to the Forum "Reconstruction" then "Expander Surgery" that's my posts about my surgeries. Under the same name Aussie12, I have over 10 thousand views so far which is great. If you need more info let me know.

    Best wishes

    Carol

     

     

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  • SandyAust
    SandyAust Member Posts: 393
    edited May 2015

    Hi Carol,

    Thanks for your reply. I lived in Perth for twelve years. My twins were born there. I had my mastectomy at the Mount Hospital. I nearly had a reconstruction but changed my mind the night before the mastectomy. It was going to be immediate reconstruction.

    I have private insurance but I can't afford the gap. Do you think the care was good in the public system? I notice you had your surgery delayed a couple of times. Also do you think you got a good surgeon. I find many doctors seem to work in both the private and public system.

    I had to have neurosurgery on my cervical spine last year. It cost more than $8000. I don't mind waiting to go public this time.

    Thanks for your help and I hope none of my questions are inappropriate.

    Sandy


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  • SandyAust
    SandyAust Member Posts: 393
    edited May 2015

    Does anyone else have anyexperience of reconstruction in the public system?

    Thanks Sandy

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