Now accepting applications for 2024!

At the NFED, we recognize that cost can be a barrier to getting needed treatments and services associated with an ectodermal dysplasia diagnosis. The Treatment Assistance Program (TAP) is designed to provide financial stipends to families needing assistance. Applications will be accepted until October 1, 2024.

Important Application Information:

Who is Eligible to Apply?

  • Any individual who has a diagnosis of an ectodermal dysplasia and meets our income criteria is eligible to apply.
  • If you are receiving treatment at an NFED Dental Treatment Center, you can also apply to the Treatment Assistance Program if you meet the criteria.
  • Individuals receiving funding for dental care or wigs can reapply to the Treatment Assistance Program every 5 years from the date of payment.
  • A five-year funding period with a lifetime maximum award of $15,000 will apply to each approved applicant.

Eligible Services & Items:

This program provides small stipends* to individuals affected by ectodermal dysplasias for the following items:

  • Dental treatment for all ages.
  • Wigs.
  • Air conditioners.
  • Cooling vests.
  • Genetic testing.

*Unfortunately, we are not able to approve funding requests outside of the United States.

Items NOT Covered by TAP:

  • Everyday necessities.
  • Electric bills.
  • Central air-conditioning.
  • Diapers.
  • Routine tooth cleaning.
  • Experimental services/treatments OR services/treatments completed prior to TAP application approval (except for genetic testing stipends).
  • The program does not reimburse any patient for care already received (except for genetic testing stipends).

How Much Funding is Available?

Each year, our Board of Directors determines the budget of the Treatment Assistance Program based on available funds. Because of the increasing number of applicants, a rapid escalation in the cost of oral health care, and a limited amount of available funds, the total funds awarded for a specific treatment may be capped at a specific dollar amount, so that we can assist as many individuals as possible.

This means that the awards may not equal the request. We make every effort to fund care that will resolve the situation in the most economical way. All families are asked to contribute something to the cost of care, be it a wig, an air-conditioner or dental care, as family income allows.

Award Amounts

The NFED Board of Directors has allocated $10,000 in TAP funds for 2023. These funds will be allocated as follows:

  • $2,000 stipends available for dentures or to assist with an individual’s overall treatment plan.
  • $250 stipends available for genetic testing to assist families with diagnosis.
  • Stipends for cooling products, wigs, and other treatment requests such as hearing aids, will be determined based on the estimated cost, financial need, and funds available.

Important Application Information:

  • Funds will only be awarded for services/treatments that address the direct effects of an ectodermal dysplasia.
  • The NFED will only pay for services/treatments within the submitted treatment plan.
  • Payments will only be made to the approved care provider after treatment is completed.
  • A new application will need to be submitted for new services or providers to be considered.
  • The NFED reserves the right to ask for additional information before making a funding decision.

Apply Here