Photos: “Bras For A Cause” Underway At Cabinet
[Updated] Bras can be seen hanging from the Cabinet Grounds this evening [June 4] — with two of them tied to the door of the Cabinet Office — as people join a protest about proposed changes to legislation which would affect mammograms.
The event promo called for people to “hang your bra in support of early detection saving lives,” saying: ”Bermuda let’s unite as a Nation! Join the cause to oppose the new health legislation guidelines on Mammograms. Join women and men around the island in a silent protest by hanging bras around the Cabinet Grounds.
Update: Shadow Minister of Health Kim Wilson joins the protest:
“Show the house representatives [both OBA and PLP] we do not agree with these new changes. We are asking them to ‘Vote No!’ or at least allow for further consultation,” the organisers said.
People are still arriving as of this writing, and we will update as able.
Update: Audio of one of the organisers, Coral Wells, speaking to the gathered crowd
Speaking at the Cabinet Grounds this evening, Ms Wells thanked everyone for coming out, and said she is not prepared to pick up anything until the the bill is passed without mammographies. “Until it happens tomorrow, I am not picking anything up,” added Ms Wells, who received applause from the crowd.
Update: Audio of Health Minister Jeanne Atherden speaking at the protest this evening
Minister Atherden said, “The bill that will be debated tomorrow will be one that does not change the current policy on the coverage for mammography screening.”
“It will be removed,” added the Minister, drawing applause from the crowd.
Update 8.33pm: Shadow Health Minister Kim Wilson said, “As Shadow Health Minister, I have become very familiar with the various recommendations on mammography and the benefits of early detection of breast cancer.
” Therefore, I am very pleased that the government has backed down from amending the Standard Health Benefit legislation where mammograms are concerned.
“Various organizations and individuals presented their views and I thank them for standing up for this cause so dear to so many Bermudian residents.
“There needs to be wider consultation and the OBA government needs to stop trying to force legislation through without consulting the stakeholders and the experts.
“We are very pleased with this outcome, however, it did not have to go this route had the government acted collaboratively and in the public’s best interest.”
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I LOVE THE SHOW OF SUPPORT (no pun intended). We all need to show the government that we will NOT be dictated to or have our health compromised – EVER.
The Government, nor anyone else are attempting to dictate to you nor have your health compromised…
What was it that I’d written above that’s different from what the Minister has stated? Some people are so damn bias, “that they fail to see the writing upon the wall.”
As I’d mentioned, it was never an issue presented by the Government it had / is an issue presented by doctors…Dah
RayRay – are you drunk already? What the heck are you trying to stammer about this morning?
LMFAO
A thought for “you know who today.”
My point are my views and I am not afraid to sign my birth given name, (wrong or right)I’m man enough to admit my wrongs if proven to be incorrect…
I’m sometimes asked “Why do you spend so much of your time and money talking about kindness to animals when there is so much cruelty to men?” I answer: “I am working at the roots.” -George T. Angell, reformer (5 Jun 1823-1909)
Oh, by the way, “Regina” (or whoever you are hiding behind that pseudonym) I don’t drink
Now you go have yourself, a great day!
It was the island’s medical community that made the recommendation and the island’s cancer doctors are in full support.
Not sure why people don’t listen to their doctors.
This is the most embarrassing thing that has happened in Bermuda’s political History.
Hurry up and get these Dreamers out.
LMFAO
Not even close Mockyou. A PLP premier bringing in 4 political prisoners comes to mind. That was embarrassing – and some of the community showing their approval by not protesting.
@ Ed Case: Yes, some fail to remember that particular, “piece of history”
What’s worse is them that stand firm behind the P.L.P. (like this Mockingjay character)are possibly homeless and unable to receive Government assistance for themselves and their families… But those that came from Cuba now have a home, a job and to add insult to injury, they now have their families here as well. Sad yes, but true 
Ya so they can put even bigger flops back in charge. Smh. Get a damn job mate. Useless drivel as usual
It’s sad when some people are so “silly” and narrow-minded…If anyone wants to have this examination without their doctor suggesting it and they still have it done then yes, they should be responsible for all expenses. The O.B.A. aren’t saying they can’t have it done…
“Locally the guidelines were recommended by physician leaders: the then President of the Bermuda Medical Doctors’ Association [BMDA], the Chief of Staff of the Bermuda Hospitals Board [BHB], and the Chief Medical Officer.” A Health Council spokesperson said, “The goal to adopt international screening guidelines in Bermuda emerged through a Health Council collaboration with local physician leaders: the Bermuda Medical Doctors’ Association [BMDA], the Bermuda Medical Council [BMC], the Bermuda Hospitals Board [BHB], and the Ministry of Health, Seniors and Environment.”
Following are just a few pertinent point to be considered.
(1)If I am under 50 and want to have a mammogram, will I have to pay for it myself?
“As with all medical interventions, you should discuss it with your medical doctor first. Together you’ll make a decision that is right for you. If your doctor does not see clinical reasons for you to have a screening mammogram, you could pay for it yourself, as you would for any medically unnecessary procedure.” “If your doctor sees merit in referring you, your insurance will
cover it by law.”
(2) Isn’t changing the age to 50 for screenings just the Government implementing a cost-saving measure?
“This is not a cost-saving measure. The guideline was recommended by local medical leaders concerned with healthcare quality and the benefits and risks of medical interventions. In fact, data shows that too many women aged 50 to 74 are neglecting screening at present, and more effort has to be made to encourage this group…“The Government will not see any material savings from the shift.”
(3) What harm can mammograms really do? My mom has been having them since she was 40 without any signs of problems.
“It exposes women to low levels of radiation which, over time, can be a greater risk in itself. In addition, intensive screening results in finding a multitude of minor and innocuous abnormalities that are then investigated and treated more invasively, though they were never going to become serious.
“This is known as over-diagnosis, and it can cause harm to women, as well as
contribute to unnecessary psychological distress.”
Take Note:
As mentioned, there is no way K.E.M.H. / doctors can deny a patient treatment if their doctor recommends they have it. But, if they did not recommend treatment, then the patient will still be able to have tests performed but at their own expense e.g. not having their insurance companies “support” / backing.
What are the guidelines for testicular cancer screenings?
“My Testes are my Besties!”?
So what you are saying is, for those of us who do not fall into the categories required for the scan, pay out of pocket. Who has that kind of money? A lot of women will be disadvantaged due to the cost, and so women will also end up with full blown cancer because they can’t afford it. Grow a pair Raymond.
@back in the day-girl … SO where does the money come from. If your statement about affording it reads correctly, then you will realize why this island’s healthcare system is bankrupt and our healthcare costs are soaring – insurance is so high because of these unnecessary investigations.
Furthermore, they are not saying you can’t have a mammogram if you need one. If your doctor concurs with your concerns, they will refer you and insurance will pay for it … so you won’t be out of pocket. However, you will be when the healthcare costs start soaring again.
I dont think any woman thinks these scans uneccesary. Prevention is cheaper than cure.
My wife died when she was 37… When she was 33 she discovered a small lump during a self examination and went to the doctor. She then had a mammogram which then she found out it was cancerous……I remember feeling the lump and remember how quickly the lump grew between the discovery of the lump to the time it was removed. It doubled in size in 2 weeks
If a woman doesn’t discover the lump during a self exam and she has to wait every other year for a mammogram, this could be the difference between life and death.
The earlier it is detected the better chance of survival she has.
Why don’t you run for OBA already? Or are you already working in their public support department.? Because you comment on every single story , without fail, each time towing the party line.
Do you ever even step back and give a conscious thought to things being proposed, especially matters relatin to the health of the public and in this case specifically women?
Just wondering.. I’m bored.
Furthermore let me address your null points.
1. Many commenters have already addressed that point by saying many doctors did not refer screening procedures due to a lack of “lumps” and such when in fact there were cancerous signs only detected by mammograms for women UNDER aged 50. If a doctor doesn’t refer a mammogram then the woman will have to pay- hence the problem.
2 You stated that currently many women 50-74 are neglecting screening at present and then imply that the new procedure allows for easy access to screening through doctor reccomendation. The new legislation will only raise that statistic and make screening levels descend.
3…. Seriously? The amount of harm done by any “over-screening” in NO WAY compares to the harm done by cancer detected at a late stage. Psychological distress? Let me stop there.
Ray , if you are not a Doctor or a woman.. Let it go..
WHY? Ray has made some very good points. Why does being a woman qualify anyone to have (or not have) an opinion on this matter?
You don’t have to be a doctor to understand economics and statistics.
Sorry Raymond, as soon as you started calling people silly for being concerned about women’s health, your argument’s in vain and will likely be ignored by many.
Oh ..He called someone silly? I Didn’t even get past his name.
I would have to agree. I tend to read most comments that don’t start off like that man’s. Maybe he should have put silly at the end. Lol
@ray ray nobody cares what you have to say..shut up just for today!! For goodness sake..just shut up…
I actually do care what Raymond has to say, and once again he is correct!!! I now see the government is caving into this latest nonsense!!! I can’t wait for the next time when those that are so adamantly oppose to these changes, complain about the cost of their health insurance!!! Beleive me, I will be the first to remind them!!!!
@kangaroo please join Ray Ray and shut up for the day too….stay out of grown women’s business…just shut the hell up…
Could not agree more … people squawk about rising health care costs, and this is just another example.
I concur.
U.B.P/oba diehards are in an embarrassing position as of now, this must be the first time this type of thing has happened.
PRICELESS.
For God’s sake OBA why are you getting involved with health issues ?
I hope to hell that the health minister drops this stupid legislature in the house tomorrow ….stay out of health issues between doctor and patient….
It is called trying to stop the healthcare system’s spiraling costs. We are going bankrupt … the problem is that this is a very emotive subject and people do not want to hear it.
You sound like a Tea Party supporter on Obama Care.
no, just a concerned healthcare provider who sees it from both sides. NHS trained, unlike the crazy US healthcare system.
What bit of what I said makes me sound like a Tea Party supporter??
Unfortunately,(it appears)a vast majority, seem to believe what the A.M.A. say is, “the honest to god gospel” America is a country concerned more about making money than it is about anyone’s health. If not, then tell us why do they refuse to sell to the public any “generic medications” until countless years/decades later in-spite of the facts they’ve been proven as efficient as other more expensive medications? Wouldn’t this be showing the public they really care ?
YAAWWNNNNN
Amen hear hear lol hahahahaha STHU
Well done Minister. The people have spoken and you have listened.
@The Ridiculist. I agree. His comments are incredibly obtuse.
@Raymond. You really missed it here…
Stormin Norman will go down with the Titanic.
The government will have it’s say and the people will have their way.
Oh good grief OBA!!! When will you grow a pair?? You can’t even stand up to 100 people and a 1000 bras??? We are in a dire situation and at every turn we have those that complain about Belco rate increases and health insurance increases along with with complaining they don’t get enough from government etc…. You need to actually educate the population or we are all doomed!!! Do I really have to remind everyone of the situation in Greece??? I now am going to implement my exit plan, I have had enough!!! This kicking the can down the road does not work for me and I will not be any part of it!!! Thankfully I am all cash and zero debt, and can hold my head up high when I take it with me!!!! Enough is enough!!!!
BYE!!!!
You obviously don’t go to any college that is reputable?? And if you do, the world is in more danger than I even realized???
GOOD RIDDANCE, we’ll have a block party round Court Street after this good news.
And when you get to your destination tell my Aboriginal brothers and sisters I said Hi.
Like anyone gives a crap what u do. Lmfao. Again. Get a bleddy job bie. Ya runnin up ya mommas light bill.
She’s not complaining and I pay the bills.
we as women have the right to have a mammogram yearly as we pay enough weekly to insurance companies for health insurance and as the ads always say EARLY DETECTION COULD BE LIFE SAVING I wish to have my yearly boob squish
Thank uou
They are not saying you can’t have a mammogram if you need one. If your doctor concurs with your concerns, they will refer you and insurance will pay for it …
So who makes that decision if you need one? I go for my annual exam and I have no history or symptoms. You think my doctor will be able to refer me without a compelling reason? Trust, those barricades would have come with the passing of this flawed legislation. I fall into the under 50 over 40 category. No symptoms, no family history. Diagnosed at 45 due to my annual screening. If I had to wait till 50, my family would be celebrating that milestone at my graveside. So don’t tell me about insurance costs and unnecessary treatments. Most screening exams for men are included in the annual physical – (Cough and turn your head for the front and try not to hold your breath for the rear). Lucky you.
We as women have a right to BIRTH how we want, when we want, WHERE we want. The end.
OBA is seriously rooting for PLP to get back in power
Women votes more than men. WOMEN ISSUES , stop acting like US GOP, they never forget ! Your 2017 sales pitch … I don’t .remember it takes between 50- 70 votes per constituency to sway an election…. Seriously , don’t grand stand this issue period!
Boob-gate!!!
It took awhile, but it now seems that Minister Atherden has finally connected the dots and realised she was being lead down the path into a “political firestorm” trap set by “PLP” biased Health Council & Health Dept. Civil Servants who were recommending she follow a very flawed path which they knew would be a grand opportunity for the PLP Opposition to NAIL the Govt. to the cross! Don’t think she will quite so naive in the future.
You are so Funny
So the doctors that backed the amendment were PLP as well?
Yes, dont you know that the P.L.P caused the floods in Texas too.
LMFAO
Doctors BACKING the amendment are VERY different from Civil Servants who drafted and RECOMMENDED the Minister take forward this obviously flawed amendment. Gives me clear insight about the questionable decisions/recommendations of some of our senior Civil Servants – conclusion for me – they must be pro-PLP, otherwise they would have NEVER recommended the Minister table this…
QED
I’m Sorry but the Minister has the final say and she tabled it
Yes she did table it & SHE withdrew it after realising that she had been lead into a politcal ambush
No, the doctors that supported the amendment were just being doctors, giving good advice.
I think I’m going bra shopping in town tonight.
Bad move, you might look like a perv.
Lol. That purple one looks kinda sixy.
It is called trying to stop the healthcare system’s spiraling costs. We are going bankrupt … the problem is that this is a very emotive subject and people do not want to hear it.
Boo hoo hoo, whaaaa
LMFAO
I rest my case …
Exactly as he prob benefits off of the hard earned dollar we make. Typical
And I thank you for your contributions.
LMFAO
They tried to push this through without public feedback and consultation and they got spanked. Ray and Kangoocar take a seat. A back seat. I’m gonna let the ladies handle this one.
I hear you outkasted, and I look forward to the day the UK government steps in here to deal with our debt problems ( think Cayman Islands ) and they will not give a rats behind how much you protest their presence of their actions!!! I actually am now looking forward to that day now, you all are going to hate it!!! Neither the OBA or the PLP have the political will to do the right thing, but fear not, the UK government does!!!!!
Yes, just maybe I will. For all it’s worth is, “a tit 4 a tat”. Politically speaking, probably it shouldn’t be of any concern to O.B.A. / P.L.P. This in reality is a matter between the doctors and our insurance companies, not Government.
@ Ray: that’s what you should’ve said in the first place. Think about the females in your life and what’s best for them. Instead of blindly following the OBA. Politicians shouldn’t be legislating individual’s health care period. It’s about options and personal choice.
Stormin Norman ALWAYS talks before he thinks.
The OBA backed out of this one. What does that tell you?
Tells me that they shot first then ask questions later.
OBA listened and changed! Wish others had listened when we did not agree with what they were putting into place. We wouldn’t be in the position we are now.
Hey Dreamer if they would’ve listened they wouldn’t have had to change.
Too much WAX.
LMFAO
i is so gross that are doing that
it is so nice that they helping out today
everybody always has an opinion until it hits home and than the opinion becomes a very sad reality.
Thank God for democracy! (Y)
Would this be the same God who created cancer that kills people?
He gave life, He has no interest in taking it, man is doing a fine job on his own, follow and be led, or lead and see what’s ahead…
Yup and Wars and Racism.