Bill Would Cover Wigs as DME Under Medicare

HR 7546 aims to help those affected by hair loss due to treatments & alopecia

By Michelle Love

The Wigs as Durable Medical Equipment Act (HR 7546) has been reintroduced in Congress. The bill, which was originally introduced in 2023 as the Recognition of Traction Alopecia in Service Women Act of 2023, would allow cranial prosthetics (that is, wigs) to be covered under the Medicare program as durable medical equipment (DME) for those undergoing treatments that cause hair loss, such as chemotherapy or those who are affected by alopecia areata.

First Introduction

The bill was first introduced in 2023 by Reps. Ayanna Pressley, Bonne Watson Coleman and Jennifer McClellan as the Recognition of Traction Alopecia in Service Women Act. In its initial form, it would have amended United States Code 1074 C to add traction alopecia and wigs as a covered medical treatment under TRICARE, the uniformed services health care program for active-duty service members. It would also direct the secretary of defense to create regulations and training materials warning of the risk of traction alopecia.

That version of the bill was ultimately shot down, but it has been reintroduced with the addition of coverage for wigs for those undergoing chemotherapy.

McGovern and Pressley announced the reintroduction of the act in February 2026 to the House of Representatives.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

The bill has been referred to the House Committees on Energy and Commerce and Ways and Means.

From the Sponsors:

“For people impacted by alopecia or undergoing cancer treatment, a wig can make a major difference—providing them with the confidence and courage to live as normally as possible during a challenging time. But wigs can cost thousands of dollars, and despite the enormous and clear benefits they provide, Medicare doesn’t currently cover them. That needs to change. This bill is about helping make sure everyone can live their lives with dignity and confidence, regardless of who they are or how much money is in their bank account. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect, and that is what this bill is about.”

—Rep. Jim McGovern

“For many impacted by medical hair loss, unaffordable and inaccessible wigs can deepen an already significant mental and physical burden. As someone living with alopecia, I know what it feels like to endure a vulnerable transformation not of my choosing. Those experiencing medical hair loss deserve to step into their own beauty and power, and I’m proud to reintroduce this bill with Congressman McGovern and Senator Blumenthal to expand coverage for wigs, relieve financial barriers and support dignity for all.”

—Rep. Ayanna Pressley