Wigs and hairpieces

If the client meets all qualifications, they may be able to receive a Special Needs Grant to assist with the cost of wigs and hairpieces if they:

• suffer from a medical condition or are undergoing medical treatment which makes it desirable for the client to wear a wig or hairpiece on cosmetic grounds
• have been provided with financial assistance towards the purchase of a wig or hairpiece through Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora and
• are unable to meet the remaining costs

The client needs to provide evidence Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora has provided assistance and what shortfall the client must meet to purchase the wig or hairpiece.

Unless exceptional circumstances exist, the maximum amount payable towards the cost of a wig or hairpiece is $300.

Grants for this purpose are:

• non-recoverable
• are restricted to one payment for the same or similar purpose in any 52-week period

Deduct any health-related subsidy and/or insurance payments from the total payment required.

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora provides assistance for wigs and hairpieces, and to assist you a process to request a client's entitlement has been developed.