Free Ostomy Supplies in England: A Patient's Perspective

Hi, in England all prescriptions for ostomy supplies are free, I am told by my stoma nurse. I have not had my colostomy yet, due to go into the hospital on the 22nd of November and the operation is to take place on the 23rd.

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I have also been told that after my operation all prescriptions will be free, even for non-ostomy stuff. I don't know how it all works yet, but I expect I'll have plenty of time after the operation.

Of course, we say prescriptions are free, but they are not really unless you are on benefits, because of course we all have to pay National Insurance if working or earning money. So this is why prescriptions are free at the point of supply.

Yes, they are free. You need to get a prescription exemption certificate. If you go to your pharmacy, you can get a form, then take it to your GP to sign and post it. You're entitled to it whether you're working or not.

Hi Trudel, best wishes for Sunday/Monday. I wonder if it's The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham you are going to. Make sure you have a couple of waterproof mattress covers, mine are the quilted type; they needn't be that horrible plastic, and some old towels to lie on when you get home. This can save an awful lot of aggravation in the early stages while you get used to it. Hope you have plenty of support once back in your own surroundings. I look forward to reading about your progress on here. P.S. Love the donkey!