To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide coverage for wigs as durable medical equipment under the Medicare program, and for other purposes.

Sponsor: James P. McGovern (Democratic-MA)

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Introduced

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Passed One Chamber

Passed Both Chambers

Signed into Law

Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

Lets Medicare cover wigs for people with hair loss from certain health conditions.

Medicare would cover wigs (also called cranial prostheses) for people who lose their hair due to health problems like cancer or autoimmune diseases. Right now, Medicare does not pay for these items. This change would require a doctor to confirm the wig is medically necessary.

What Would Change

Currently, Medicare does not cover wigs, also known as cranial prostheses, even if they are needed due to a health condition. If this bill becomes law, Medicare would begin to cover these items as durable medical equipment, but only if a patient's doctor certifies in writing that the wig is medically necessary for their treatment or hair loss caused by specific health issues.

Key Provisions

Lets Medicare cover cranial prostheses (wigs) as durable medical equipment.
Requires a dermatologist, oncologist, or attending physician to certify in writing that a wig is medically necessary for coverage.
Clarifies that Medicare would not cover wigs without this required medical certification.

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HR 7546 · 119th Congress · AI Summary by gemini-2.5-flash · 9/10

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide coverage for wigs as durable medical equipment under the Medicare program, and for other purposes.

What Would Change

Key Provisions

Lobbying Activity