Is it Not Possible to Fix AGA with Insurance Medical Treatment?

Treatment for AGA (androgenetic alopecia) is usually not covered by insurance. This is because AGA is considered to be for “cosmetic purposes” and is not a directly life-threatening disease. The reasons why AGA treatment is not covered by insurance and the details are explained below.

Reasons not covered by insurance

Considered for cosmetic purposes

Reason: AGA treatment is performed primarily to improve appearance, so it is generally not covered by insurance. Insurance often covers life-threatening treatments and treatments to maintain health [56†source].

Treatment drugs and treatment methods

Finasteride or dutasteride: These oral medications are widely used in AGA treatment, but they are not covered by insurance because they are intended for cosmetic purposes.
Minoxidil: Minoxidil, which is used externally, is also not covered by insurance [57†source].
Hair transplant surgery: Hair transplantation, which is a surgical procedure, is also considered to be for cosmetic purposes and is one of the treatments that is not covered by insurance [55†source].

Treatment costs not covered by insurance

Oral medication costs

Finasteride: About 3,000 yen to 10,000 yen per month
Dutasteride: Approximately 5,000 yen to 15,000 yen per month
Minoxidil: Approximately 5,000 yen to 8,000 yen per month

Hair transplant surgery cost

Fut method: Approximately 500,000 yen to 1,500,000 yen for one surgery
FUE method: One surgery costs about 600,000 yen to 2 million yen [56†source] [57†source].

Exceptional case

Certain medical conditions: In rare cases, insurance coverage may be considered in cases where it is deemed medically necessary, such as when severe hair loss has a serious impact on psychological health. However, this is an exceptional case and depends on the judgment of the insurance company and doctor [55†source].

Support for self-pay medical treatment

Medical loan: Medical loans may be available to pay for expensive treatment costs in installments.
Clinic plan: Some clinics may package treatments and offer plans that reduce costs.

Summary

AGA treatment is usually not covered by insurance. This is because the treatment is considered cosmetic. When receiving treatment, it is important to carefully check the costs and plan accordingly, understanding that you will have to pay out of pocket.