Unequal NHS wig provision: toupée or no toupée, that is the question?

Abstract

Wigs are a necessary medical orthotic for some with alopecia to participate in society. However, for those with limited incomes, government funded National Health Service (NHS) wig provision is of great help. Recent reports to Alopecia UK, a patient support group, suggest restrictions in this support. The availability of NHS wig provision by UK geographical region was assessed by surveying dermatology secondary care healthcare professionals. There were 75 responses from 48/136 (35%) of UK Trusts and Health Boards. It was difficult for clinicians at 24/48 (50%) institutions to prescribe wigs. Wig provision was impossible for 11%. There was regional variation; it was straightforward throughout Scotland and the South West of England but difficult in Northern Ireland and London, where 50% reported it was impossible or nearly impossible. This demonstrates unwarranted variation in wig prescription difficulty for patients across the UK.