Is a trichologist covered by insurance?
It’s a question I’m often asked, so here’s an honest answer. Most UK private medical insurance, including Bupa, AXA Health, Vitality and Aviva, excludes treatment it considers cosmetic, and hair loss usually falls into that category. That means a trichologist consultation is generally not covered under a standard policy.
There are exceptions. Policies differ, some health cash plans and workplace schemes pay towards a wider range of practitioners, and if your hair loss is linked to an underlying medical condition, your insurer may treat it differently. The only way to know is to check your own policy before you book.
Whatever your cover, I’m happy to help you work out what to ask.
The short answer
Usually not through private medical insurance. Most insurers treat hair loss as cosmetic, so a trichologist isn’t covered as standard.
But it’s worth checking: some health cash plans and employer schemes do pay towards it, and cover can be different if your hair loss has a medical cause.
Does Bupa cover hair loss treatment?
If you’re a Bupa member, here’s what to check before you book.
In most Bupa health insurance policies, treatment for hair loss, including alopecia, is treated as cosmetic and isn’t covered. Bupa also asks members to call them before any appointment so they can confirm what, if anything, will be paid for.
So if you’re a Bupa member and thinking of seeing a trichologist:
- Call Bupa first and ask whether your policy covers a consultation with a trichologist for hair loss or a scalp condition.
- Ask about your diagnosis. If your GP or a consultant has linked your hair loss to a medical condition, ask whether that changes your cover.
- Get the answer in writing, or note the date and the name of the person you spoke to.
If Bupa won’t cover it, you can still book with me privately.
Other insurers, cash plans and workplace schemes
Cover varies a lot between policies, so these are general pointers rather than promises.
AXA Health, Vitality, Aviva and WPA
The same usually applies: hair loss is treated as cosmetic unless it’s part of a covered medical condition. Check the “exclusions” section of your policy for cosmetic treatment, and call your insurer if it’s unclear.
Health cash plans
Cash plans, such as those from Simplyhealth, Westfield Health or Medicash, pay back part of the cost of everyday healthcare. Some include specialist consultations or practitioners on an accredited register. Check the list of what your plan covers.
Workplace schemes
If your employer provides health cover or a wellbeing budget, ask HR or the scheme provider whether it includes a trichologist. Some are more flexible than personal policies.
How to check your cover
Three things to do before you book, so there are no surprises.
1
Find the exclusions
Look in your policy documents for “cosmetic treatment”, “hair loss” or “alopecia”. That usually answers the question quickly.
2
Ask the right questions
Ask whether you’re covered to see a trichologist, whether you need a GP referral first, and how much of the cost they would pay.
3
Check the practitioner rules
Some plans only pay practitioners on an accredited register. I’m registered with the Institute of Trichologists (no. 10060), whose register is accredited by the Professional Standards Authority.
Claiming after your appointment
I don’t bill insurers directly. You pay for your appointment, and if your plan covers it, you claim the money back yourself.
I’ll give you an invoice for your appointment to send with your claim. If your insurer needs any further details, just ask and I’ll provide them.
Can I see a specialist on the NHS?
Trichologists aren’t available on the NHS, but your GP can investigate some causes of hair loss, such as iron or thyroid levels, and refer you to a dermatologist if needed.
Support if you have alopecia
Insurance rarely pays for wigs either, but there is help available.
- NHS wigs are available through a hospital referral. There may be a charge unless you qualify for help with NHS costs.
- Alopecia UK is a national charity offering information, support groups and an online community.
- A trichologist consultation can help you understand which type of alopecia you have and what might help. See my guide to alopecia areata.
Insurance questions
If yours isn’t here, send me a message and I’ll get back to you.
Is a trichologist covered by insurance?
Not usually under private medical insurance, because most insurers treat hair loss as cosmetic. Some health cash plans and workplace schemes do pay towards it, so check your own policy before you book.
Does Bupa cover hair loss treatment?
In most Bupa policies, hair loss treatment, including for alopecia, is treated as cosmetic and isn’t covered. Call Bupa before booking to check your own policy.
Does insurance cover alopecia treatment?
Usually not, because most insurers class it as cosmetic. If your alopecia is linked to an underlying medical condition, ask your insurer whether that changes your cover.
Do I need a GP referral to claim?
Some insurers and cash plans ask for one, so check first. You don’t need a GP referral to book with me.
Do you take insurance?
I don’t bill insurers directly. I give you an invoice to claim back from your insurer if your plan covers it, and I can provide any further details they need.
How much does a consultation cost?
It depends on the type of appointment. Send me a message and I’ll explain the fees before you book.
What patients say
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