§ 415:18-d — Coverage for Scalp Hair Prostheses

I. Each insurer that issues or renews any policy of group accident or health insurance providing benefits for medical or hospital expenses and which also provides coverage for other prostheses, shall provide to each group, or to the portion of each group comprised of certificate holders of such insurance who are residents of this state and whose principal place of employment is in this state, coverage for expenses for scalp hair prostheses worn for hair loss suffered as a result of alopecia areata, alopecia totalis, alopecia medicamentosa resulting from the treatment from any form of cancer or leukemia, or permanent loss of scalp hair due to injury. Such coverage, however, shall be subject to a written recommendation by the treating physician stating that the hair prosthesis is a medical necessity. Such coverage shall be subject to the same limitations and guidelines as other prostheses, provided, that such coverage for alopecia medicamentosa shall not exceed $350 per year.
II. For the purposes of this section:
(a) "Prostheses" means artificial appliances used to replace lost natural structures. Prostheses include, but are not limited to, artificial arms, legs, breasts or glass eyes.
(b) "Scalp hair prostheses" means artificial substitutes for scalp hair that are made specifically for a specific individual.

Legislative History

1992, 246:1. 2001, 276:3. 2010, 188:13, eff. Aug. 20, 2010.