Health benefits
5. Wigs and fabric supports
If you need a wig or a fabric support (abdominal or spinal support or surgical brassiere) for medical reasons, you may be able to get help with the cost of these items.
You are entitled to free wigs and/or fabric supports if one of the following applies to you:
- you are automatically entitled to health benefits or have certificate HC2
- you are a hospital inpatient at the time the wig or fabric support is supplied
You may get help with part of the cost if you have certificate HC3. For more information on certificates HC2 and HC3, see the section Who can get help with charges? You will not have to pay more than the maximum amount stated on your certificate.
To claim: Tell the hospital when you go for a fitting if you are entitled to a free wig or fabric support, or help with part of the cost. Remember to take proof of your entitlement with you, for example, your benefit award letter or your HC2 or HC3 certificate.
Refunds: If you have already paid a charge and have just found out that you are entitled to help, then you may be able to claim a refund. The procedure is the same as claiming refunds for dental treatment (see Prescriptions and dental treatment)
