SPRINGFIELD – State Sen. Napoleon Harris III has promoted a new initiative inspired by constituent concerns about individuals battling cancer who cannot afford hair prosthetics.
“Those experiencing hair loss due to alopecia, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy have enough health hurdles to overcome,” said Harris (D-Harvey). “By providing them with wigs and other artificial scalps, we can give them hope, help them feel more like themselves, and give them a sense of normalcy.”
Senate Bill 2573 would require insurance plans to provide coverage for wigs and other scalp prostheses for individuals experiencing alopecia, hair loss due to chemotherapy or radiation therapy due to cancer or other conditions.
Currently, 13 other states offer some form of coverage for synthetic hair. If your personal insurance does not cover hair prosthetics, medical tax credits may be available. However, to claim it, a person’s total medical expenses must exceed 7.5% of their adjusted gross income.
“Coverage for artificial skulls varies by insurance plan and insurance company. Some plans cover it, others don’t,” Harris said. “This initiative will standardize health insurance coverage for hair prosthetics across the board.”
Senate Bill 2573 passed the Senate Insurance Committee on Wednesday and heads to the floor for further consideration.
