Final answer:
In Nevada, health insurers providing mastectomy benefits must cover reconstructive breast surgery and related post-mastectomy services, rather than unrelated procedures such as vision surgery. Comprehensive care after mastectomy is ensured through specific mandates. Inclusion in healthcare coverage has been evolving, like Medicare's decision on sexual reassignment surgery influencing private insurers' coverage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Under the health insurance laws in Nevada, if a health insurer provides benefits for mastectomy, they are required to cover other post-mastectomy services. This includes reconstruction of the breast on which the mastectomy was performed, surgery and reconstruction of the other breast to produce a symmetrical appearance, and any physical complications at all stages of mastectomy, including lymphedemas. These requirements are in place to ensure comprehensive post-operative care for individuals who undergo mastectomies.
These mandates do not extend to procedures such as vision surgery, which is considered a separate category of medical care.
The struggle against discrimination in healthcare coverage, including for the LGBTQ community, also brings to focus the importance of inclusive health insurance benefits that align with medically necessary treatments, much like the coverage determination made by Medicare for sexual reassignment surgery has influenced private insurers to follow suit.