Getting insurance coverage for electrolysis can be tricky. While I can’t personally strong-arm the insurance companies into paying you, the following information should help you have the best chance at getting the coverage you need.
What I can do for you
Unfortunately, we do not have the scale or infrastructure to accept insurance directly at this time. However, there are a few things I can provide to help you get reimbursed.
- I can provide you with an itemized superbill that includes the necessary coding to make your insurance company happy
- I can provide a letter of medical necessity, as the provider performing the hair removal (NOT a replacement for the letter from your physician)
- I can send my assessment and treatment plan to your physician to make their support letter easier to write
I’m also happy to tweak these documents for you if your insurance company isn’t happy with some aspect of them. I’m always trying to learn what more I can do to get my clients’ treatments covered, so please keep me in the loop with any issues you have!
Physician Support Letters
If you are seeking electrolysis as part of your gender-affirming care, you may need a letter of necessity from the healthcare provider overseeing your gender-affirming hormone therapy within the past 18 month.
Alternatively, if you are seeking electrolysis due to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or another follicular disorder, a medical necessity letter from your treating provider (dermatologist, endocrinologist, or primary care provider) may be required. This letter should address the specific condition prompting the need for electrolysis.
For all cases, the letter must:
- Detail previous hair removal attempts and specify any failures by body region.
- Explain the medical condition that hinders the use of alternative hair removal methods (e.g., laser, shaving).
- In the case of PCOS or other follicular disorders, describe how these conditions contribute to excessive hair growth (hirsutism) or other hair removal difficulties.
- Be written within the past 18 months
It may also be beneficial for your provider to put in a referral TO my clinic, simply for the documentation. This can be done even if you have already seen me for treatment.
Photo Documentation
Before and after photos of the treated area may be helpful or required by your insurance company. Before photos should show visible hair growth; after photos should be taken immediately after treatment. You can take photo documentation yourself, or I am also happy to assist with it.