BH13 Current Wig Prescribing Practices and Financial Evaluation in a National Health Service Foundation Trust: Lessons Learned and Future Challenges

The study examines wig prescribing practices and associated costs within a National Health Service (NHS) foundation trust, highlighting the psychological benefits of wigs for patients with alopecia. Over 12 months, 324 prescriptions were issued to 200 patients, predominantly female, with a median age of 52 years. Nonscarring alopecia was the most common diagnosis, and 60.5% of wigs prescribed were acrylic. The study found significant regional discrepancies in wig funding and emphasized the need for equitable NHS wig provision. The findings support ongoing reviews to improve access to wigs as a crucial management tool for alopecia, given the limited treatment options available on the NHS.