Avelar Supports Healthcare Expansions, Secures Wig Coverage for Cancer Survivors

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — State Rep. Dagmara “Dee” Avelar, D-Bolingbrook, is advancing legislation to require that insurance companies cover the cost of wigs and scalp prosthesis for those battling or recovering from cancer and other serious medical conditions resulting in hair loss.

“As lawmakers we must continue to go above and beyond in providing support to those in their most vulnerable moments. Cancer survivors and others with medical conditions resulting in hair loss deserve to embrace their health journey with dignity and empowerment,” said Avelar. “By ensuring that insurance companies extend coverage for wigs and scalp prosthesis for those enduring the grueling battle against cancer and other serious conditions, we can help restore a level of comfort and familiarity as patients navigate a challenging time.”

The Avelar-backed Senate Bill 2573 would require insurance companies to cover the cost of one wig or scalp prosthesis every 12 months for cancer survivors, those with alopecia or other conditions that would cause hair loss. The initiative is supported by the Illinois State Medical Society and passed unanimously out of the Senate on Friday, April 12.

Avelar recently championed multiple key healthcare reforms, including House Bill 5395, which curtails overreach by insurance companies when they needlessly deny medically necessary treatments, raise premiums without cause and under-insure consumers when they buy short-term health plans.

Additionally, Avelar’s House Bill 4874 expands prescription availability for patients. Pharmacists will be required to fill all medications — whether paper or electronically prescribed — catering to more residents who do not use medical applications, such as pharmacy applications, including CVS or Walgreens apps.

House Bills 5395 and 4874 passed the House and are currently under consideration in the Senate.