Financial Support for Human Hair Wigs in Switzerland – IV & Health Insurance Explained Simply

Losing one’s own hair can be a distressing experience for many people. Human hair wigs offer a natural and aesthetically pleasing solution to regain self-confidence. However, human hair wigs are often associated with high costs. In Switzerland, it may be possible to receive a subsidy for a human hair wig from the Disability Insurance (IV/DI) or from your health insurance. This article explains how the subsidy works, who may be eligible, and which steps are necessary to obtain financial support.

Why wigs are important

For people who lose their hair due to illnesses such as cancer, alopecia, or other medical reasons, human hair wigs are more than just a cosmetic accessory. They help normalize one’s appearance and support psychological well-being. Human hair wigs look more natural than synthetic wigs and feel more comfortable on the scalp. However, they are also significantly more expensive, which can be a financial barrier for many affected individuals.

Who is eligible for a subsidy?

Switzerland’s Disability Insurance (IV/DI) supports people with a permanent or temporary impairment that limits their ability to work. A subsidy for a human hair wig may be granted if the wig is medically necessary—for example, in cases of hair loss caused by an illness or a medical treatment.

Requirements for the subsidy

Medical necessity: A doctor must confirm that the hair loss was caused by an illness or treatment.

Ability to work: The IV/DI checks whether the hair loss affects your ability to work and whether the wig supports social and professional integration.

Coverage by health insurance: In some cases, the basic health insurance may cover part of the costs if the wig is recognized as an assistive device.

How does the application process work?

Applying for a subsidy for a human hair wig involves several steps:

1. Obtain a medical certificateThe first step is a medical certificate confirming the medical necessity of the wig. This document is crucial for further processing.

2. Contact the IV/DI officeThe responsible IV/DI office reviews the application and decides whether a subsidy will be granted. Additional documents may be required, such as cost estimates from specialized wig providers.

3. Submit a cost estimateA detailed cost estimate for the human hair wig is required.

4. Wait for the decisionAfter reviewing all documents, the IV/DI office will inform you of the amount approved or issue a rejection.

5. Purchase the wig and submit receiptsOnce approved, the wig can be purchased. The invoices must be submitted to receive the reimbursement.

6. 
   

Which costs are covered?

As a rule, the IV/DI does not cover the full cost of a human hair wig. The subsidy depends on the medical necessity and the individual case. Typically, the following costs may be considered:

• Purchase costs of the human hair wig

• Fitting/adaptation costs by qualified professionals

• Care products, if medically necessary

Costs for especially elaborate or highly fashion-oriented wigs that go beyond what is medically necessary are usually not covered.

Practical examples

A woman who lost her hair due to chemotherapy applied to the IV/DI for a subsidy for a human hair wig. After submitting the medical certificate and a cost estimate, she received a subsidy covering 60% of the costs. The wig helped her feel more confident in daily life and made returning to work easier.

Another case involved a man with Alopecia Areata who also required a human hair wig. The IV/DI acknowledged the medical necessity but denied a higher subsidy because the wig was classified as a luxury item. However, with support from his health insurance, he was able to cover part of the cost.

Conclusion

During your consultation, we will be happy to explain everything step by step.