Did you know that your medical insurance may pay for the cost of your wig? While it’s true, there are requirements that must be fulfilled. If you’re experiencing medical hair loss due to chemotherapy, alopecia, or other health conditions, you may be eligible to get a prescription for a wig through your health insurance. A wig prescribed for medical reasons is often referred to as a cranial prosthesis, which can help with insurance reimbursement. Continue reading for a comprehensive guide on how to get a prescription for a wig assistance.

Steps for Getting a Prescription for a Wig

The following information will help you gain more knowledge about cranial prosthesis wigs, obtaining a prescription, and insurance coverage.

1. Why a wig prescription is needed

Medical hair loss can be emotionally challenging. A wig prescription, also known as a cranial prosthesis prescription, serves two main purposes. One, it validates that your hair loss is due to a medical condition. And two, it may allow your insurance company to cover part or all of the cost of the wig.

2. Consult with your doctor

The first step to getting a prescription for a wig is to schedule an appointment with your doctor. This could be an oncologist, dermatologist, or your primary care physician. During the appointment, explain your hair loss situation and request a prescription specifically for a cranial prosthesis.

Make sure the doctor includes your diagnosis, for example, alopecia areata, chemotherapy-induced hair loss, etc. Your doctor also needs to include th term “cranial prosthesis” on your prescription. And lastly, any medical necessity documentation, if required by your insurance.

3. Will your insurance pay for a wig?

Before purchasing a wig or having a cranial prosthesis wig made, contact your health insurance provider to inquire about their policy regarding cranial prostheses. You may also be able to find this information yourself if you have your policy handy. But a good rule of thumb in these cases is to “verify” insurance coverage with your insurance company.

While all insurance policies cover medical wigs, many will offer partial reimbursement when your prescription uses the correct medical terminology. Here’s what you need to ask your health insurance provider:

• Does my plan cover wigs with a doctor’s prescription?
• Are there specific documentation or billing codes required?
• Is there a maximum reimbursement amount?

4. Purchase a wig from an approved vendor

Some insurance companies require that you purchase your wig from a certified medical supplier like Look Beyond Beauty that provides cranial prostheses. Be sure to keep all receipts. Marcey Grant at Look Beyond Beauty will ensure that your invoice uses the term “cranial prosthesis” instead of “wig.”

5. Submit your claim for reimbursement

Once you’ve purchased the cranial prosthesis wig:

• Complete the insurance claim form.
• Attach a copy of the doctor’s prescription.
• Include a detailed invoice/receipt from Look Beyond Beauty.
• Provide any additional medical documentation if requested.

Submit your claim to your insurance company. It may take a few weeks to process, so follow up regularly.

Look Beyond Beauty is Here to Help

Marcey Grant works with many individuals who are experiencing hair loss for various types of reasons. She understands that the process of getting a prescription for a wig and dealing with your health insurance company can feel overwhelming. This is why she has created a special section on this website to help individuals just like you. If any of the above makes you feel stressed, visit our medical wigs page where Marcey helps you through the entire process.

In Beauty & Wellness,
Marcey, Certified Health Coach & Trichologist