Aims: Treatment for head and neck cancer (HNC) can result in facial disfigurement with psychosocial, functional and financial impacts. External facial prosthetics protect exposed tissue and support communication, eating, identity and quality of life. Unlike breast and limb prostheses, there is no national funding scheme for facial prostheses in Australia. This project examined the financial burden of external facial prosthetics and priorities for policy reform.
Methods: Head and Neck Cancer Australia (HANCA) reviewed evidence on prosthetic rehabilitation, financial toxicity and out-of-pocket costs, and consulted an expert advisory committee of clinicians and consumers. External facial prosthetics were identified as a major unmet need. HANCA then implemented a national advocacy campaign focused on equitable access, resulting in an invitation from the Federal Government to submit a proposal for the May 2026 Budget.
Results: Evidence identified ongoing financial toxicity among HNC survivors requiring facial prosthetics, compounded by inconsistent access to rehabilitation services. Although funding was not secured in the May 2026 Budget, advocacy has continued through parliamentary engagement and national advocacy involving people with lived experience to reinforce equity issues and alignment with the Australian Cancer Plan. An independent Department of Health, Disability and Ageing review of cancer prostheses equity, published in May 2026, identified disparities by prosthesis type, geography and population group. While national programs fund breast and limb prostheses, no equivalent scheme supports facial prostheses. Barriers included high out-of-pocket costs, system complexity, limited rural and remote services, workforce shortages and low awareness of support. The review recommended a national framework to improve funding, access, navigation and equity, noting the absence of nationally consistent training, accreditation and quality standards for providers.
Conclusions: Significant funding gaps remain for people requiring facial prostheses following HNC treatment. Continued advocacy is needed to translate evidence and policy recommendations into national funding and improved survivorship outcomes.