Medical Insurance Coverage

Tips for Obtaining Insurance Coverage for hair Replacements

If you are filling a claim for an expensive custom cranial prosthesis, explain the benefits of purchasing this type of prostheses.(It is made to order, more security, more natural, ect.) Explained that while the initial cost of a custom prosthesis is higher, it will also last several years thereby being a cost effective item.

Insurance Claim Filing Tips

1. Benefit Booklet: First, check the "Benefit Booklet" given to you by your insurance carrier. This lists in detail all of the covered expenses under you particular plan. Look for the section under "Covered Expenses" relating to "Prosthesis", "Cranial Prosthesis", or "Prosthetic Devices". Photocopy this page.
2. Claim Form: Complete the claim form provided by your insurance carrier.
3. Prescription from you doctor: Obtain a written prescription for a cranial prosthesis on an actual prescription form. Also, request a detailed letter from your doctor explaining the extent of your hair loss and the mental distress you have experienced due to your medical treatment. Ask your doctor to use the word "Cranial Prosthesis" as it is considered a medically necessary item. A brief letter from a psychiatrist may also be beneficial, if available.
4. Sales Receipt: Have the salesperson write up a sales receipt or invoice for a cranial prosthesis.
5. Photo: Take some pictures of yourself without your hair and corrective eye make-up. This will immediately show that your claim is not for cosmetic purposes.
6. Personal Handwritten Letter: Detail the emotional effects that Alopecia Areata of your medical treatment has had on your life. Discuss the financial aspects of frequent wig purchases. Advise that a cranial prosthesis is just as medically necessary as a prosthetic limb or breast. it replaces a missing body part - hair.
7. For Alopecia Clients Only: Enclose a brochure from the National Alopecia Areata Foundation describing the disease of Alopecia Areata.