Insurance *MAY* Cover You

DID YOU KNOW?

• If a person requires a "cranial hair prosthesis" while undergoing cancer-related therapy, they may be eligible for reimbursement under their health insurance plan?
• If you need to wear a wig because of medical reasons like Alopecia and cancer-related therapy that the "wig" should be called a "cranial hair prosthesis" for insurance purposes?
• If you file an insurance claim for reimbursement for a "wig" instead of a "cranial hair prosthesis" you will very likely be turned down?
• Most insurance companies cover between 80 to 100% of a cranial prosthesis?

Insurance companies are realizing your cranial hair prosthesis are more and more a necessity for those recovering from Alopecia and cancer treatments. Follow some simple guidelines to assure coverage, when it is available through your insurance company. Your physician should be able to supply all the details and make the referral for the purchase of your "hair prosthesis".

• Ask your physician to write a prescription for a "cranial prosthesis".
• When receiving your hair prosthesis, have your stylist complete an invoice for a "cranial hair prosthesis"—NOT a "wig"—and use the following guidelines for filing an insurance claim:
  • Check the benefits of your insurance. There should be a section under "covered expenses" relating to prostheses, prosthetic devices or medical durable equipment. Most companies don't spell out exclusions so pay attention to the actual coverage. this will help your case.
  • Make sure to complete the insurance form and have it signed by your physician.
  • Request that your physician write a "prescription" for a "full cranial prosthesis" (not a wig) and a letter explaining hair loss and its effects. That it isn't just for cosmetic reasons but for emotional well-being as well. Keep copies of your sales or invoices for your cranial prosthesis. (Portions of unpaid items by insurance are tax deductible.)
  • Enclose a letter to the insurance company stating the necessity of a prosthesis. Some optional suggestions are: include a letter from your employer, take pictures of yourself without hair,hand write a letter detailing the emotional effects that your condition has had on your life,bring a copy of your prescription and paid bill to the American Cancer Society for partial reimbursement.
  • If your insurance coverage is denied, you can appeal it by:
    1. Asking for review by a medical review board, include the original claim
    2. Asking for a written reply as to why the claim was denied.
    3. Sending a letter to the claims department supervisor.