Even when you expect hair loss, it can still be shocking to see it fall out.

Planning for hair loss may help ease this transition.

Having a wig available (even if only for special occasions) ahead of time can help.

Display in a wig shop

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The approval process may not be simple, though.

Before wig shopping, call the insurance company and ask about its requirements.

When you file the claim, you will need to know how to how to classify your new hair.

Sometimes a wig is called “durable medical goods.”

Maintain a Paper Trail

Make copies of all the paperwork related to your wig.

Contact a local chapter of theAmerican Cancer Societyabout donated wigs that are available at no cost.

Summary

Hair loss from chemotherapy is a common experience.

Insurance companies may cover the cost of a wig.

If insurance doesn’t cover the cost, there are ways to get free wigs.

Contacting a social worker or the American Cancer Society can be helpful in getting a free wig.

American Cancer Society.Wigs for hair loss.

doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0208118

Internal Revenue Service.Topic no.

502, medical and dental expenses.

Medicare.Does Medicare cover wigs for cancer patients?

Medicaid.gov.Mandatory & optional Medicaid benefits.