I know that when you are dealing with treatment the thought of maintaining a wig may be the last thing you want to do. However, I believe that for many women maintaining the routine and glamour of their outward appearance can make all the difference in the world in avoiding depression. Anything you can do to help in the healing process will be a positive step during this crucial time and for some of us that means paying attention to these beauty rituals and this area of our life that allows us to step out of the house feeling ‘put together’.

Try to remember when you feel anxious to stay in the moment, in the present. Focus on what you can do ‘right now’ to take care of yourself. Keep your  attention on the here and now only. Breathe deeply in slow intervals.

Your physician will provide you with a prescription for your wig known in medical terms as a Full Cranial Hair Prosthesis. NOTE: Be sure TO ASK FOR THE DIAGNOSIS CODE TO BE INCLUDED ON YOUR PRESCRIPTION. 
Next – call your insurance provider and find out if your policy includes this coverage (including the specific reimbursement amount and number of wigs). There should be a section under “covered expenses” relating to prostheses, prosthetic devices, or medical durable equipment. Most  insurance companies don’t spell out exclusions so pay attention to the actual coverage.

Since many of you are on “information overload” at this time, a few simple helpful points to remember are:

• Be sure to write down the date, first name, last name and phone number/extension of the customer service representative who provides you with the information, along with the detailed coverage information.
• Save this information should you need it for future reference. It is very important to provide your insurance provider with the procedure CPT code for a Full Cranial Hair Prosthetic. The codes being used currently are: A9282, D5924, S8095, L8499.
  However there are different codes for each condition and they sometimes change per year, so be sure to ask your doctor’s office for your specific procedure code.
• After you have purchased your wig, ask the wig soon or store to provide you with a purchase receipt for you to submit to your insurance provider for possible direct reimbursement back to you. Be sure you make a photocopy of the cranial prosthesis prescription and submit that along with the purchase receipt for your wig and any necessary insurance form they require.
• When sending any paperwork always be sure to mail the necessary paperwork described above directly to your insurance provider via U.S. Post Office Certified Mail – Return Receipt so there is proof of your letter being sent and received, as many times paperwork gets lost or misplaced. I can’t stress to you enough that the more organized proof you have for your claim the better your chances in getting your claim through more easily. Always call 2 -3 days later to confirm receipt.
• Be sure when completing the insurance company’s reimbursement form that you indicate reimbursement should be sent to you directly.
• Having a specific place for all your information will be helpful (a file folder or a specific drawer in the kitchen) as cancer treatment (chemotherapy/radiation) can sometimes make you feel disoriented.

Some insurance companies may pay up to 100 percent, or 50 percent, while others like Blue Cross, which has recently changed its rules, may only pay only $300-$400. It really will depend on your policy.

However, as you want to look authentic and like the “you” you know, then you want to find a wig studio or store that can properly provide you with this wig and the expertise to match your look, size, color and feel. However, if the insurance company cannot provide you with a list of “In-Network” providers that offer finely made wigs, then you demand the in-network reimbursement price and not the out of network price. It’s not your fault they don’t have premium wigs studios signed on to their program.  Keep the green postcard return receipt you will receive by U.S. mail once the paperwork has been delivered to your insurance company. Remember to keep the photocopy of the purchase receipt, the prescription and any reimbursement form you submit to your insurance provider.

Always call 3 – 4 days after sending to confirm they have received it and keep the name of the person who signed for it.
If your insurance coverage is denied, you can appeal it:
a. Ask for review by a medical review board, include the original claim
b. Ask for a written reply as to why the claim was denied.
c. Send a letter to the claims department supervisor.

These steps are for reference. Remember to follow the procedures outlined by your insurance company to receive the fullest benefits possible. Individual insurance companies as well as the state insurance board (each state varies) may have other or additional steps to complete.

If you don’t have insurance contact your state or county agencies. The county department of social services offers medical assistance in most states for individuals who meet certain income guidelines.

Stay Positive. Stay Focused Only On Your Desired Result and claim that is the reality you live in. Period.