Being a doctor has its challenges, but imagine starting out when women weren't always accepted in medicine. Dr. Elizabeth Bonefas built a practice, stood up for her patients, and guided many through tough breast cancer battles.

• She helped care for our youngest ever diagnosed breast cancer patient at The Rose (listen to that episode here) 
• She saw surgical and health care changes over the years, from radical treatments to new options.
• She shares why women’s health care access is still a struggle, especially for the uninsured.

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Key Questions Answered

1. How did Dr. Elizabeth Bonefas start her medical career and practice?

2. Did Dr. Bonefas always want to be a doctor?

3. Why did Dr. Bonefas choose to specialize in breast surgery?

4. How has breast cancer surgery changed from the early days of Dr. Bonefas’ career?

5. What challenges do uninsured or underinsured breast cancer patients face?

6. How does insurance status impact access to breast cancer care and treatments?

7. Are younger women being diagnosed with breast cancer more frequently now?

8. What are the current recommendations for breast cancer screening?

9. How has radiation treatment for breast cancer evolved?

10. What barriers still exist for women seeking reconstructive surgery after mastectomy?

11. What additional obstacles do women in Texas, particularly uninsured women, face regarding breast health?

12. Why is pharmacy access and drug costs a significant issue for breast cancer patients?

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Interview with Dr. Elizabeth Bonefas 

05:20 From General Surgery to Breast Specialist

07:38 Evolution of Surgical Education

09:58 Evolving Lymph Node Biopsy Techniques

13:29 High Biopsy Costs and Insurance Issues

16:47 Healthcare Access Challenges

20:52 Healthcare Affordability Concerns

24:21 Breast Reconstruction Access Issues

28:41 Critique on Patronizing Reassurance