Key points
- Physiotherapy can benefit patients’ recovery after breast cancer surgery
- Breast Cancer Foundation NZ provides funding for physiotherapy across to New Zealand
- Health professionals can refer their patients online
Content:
Physiotherapy after breast cancer surgery can help patients optimise their physical functioning, and reduce side effects from surgery (e.g. scar tissue adhesions, weakness, and pain, stiffness or reduced movement).
Breast Cancer Foundation NZ-funded physiotherapy
Breast Cancer Foundation NZ funds four individual sessions with a certified PINC cancer rehab physiotherapist for people who have had breast cancer surgery. Each session is specifically designed to maximise recovery and help patients regain physical and emotional strength after surgery.
Eligibility for physiotherapy funding
Breast Cancer Foundation NZ funding is intended to help people who might not receive the treatment they need without financial support. The following criteria must be met:
- Patients must be undergoing, or have recently completed, treatment for breast cancer. Patients who have undergone prophylactic surgery for breast cancer risk are also eligible for funded physiotherapy.
- Preference is given to patients who have had breast cancer surgery recently (six months).
Questions about eligibility should be directed to the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ nursing team.
Application process
Patients can apply for physiotherapy online and no referral is required. Health professionals applying for funding on behalf of their patient should complete this online application.
To review local physiotherapy providers look at Breast Cancer Foundation NZ's physiotherapy clinic directory.
Additional resources for GP clinics
Breast Cancer Foundation NZ resources are available to download or order on the BCFNZ website.
