Hi, I'm a new ostomy patient. I was discharged from the hospital yesterday and wanted to know what resources are out there for me. I'm on a very limited income, and my insurance doesn't cover home health services. I basically got some ostomy supplies but not enough of what I need. Can someone point me in the right direction of what I can do?
Thanks.
To set up your monthly ostomy order, call different distribution companies such as Bryham and Comfort Medical. There are others; just Google "ostomy distribution companies." When you call, ask them if they accept your insurance. If they do, they will set you up to place an order. Did the products they gave you at the hospital work for your skin and ostomy without any issues?
You can also try ostomy products by calling the manufacturers like Coloplast, Hollister, and Convetec (those are the three popular ones) and ask for samples of products to try. An important tip when trying new ostomy products is to apply them on the abdomen but on the opposite side of the stoma, to make sure you don't have an allergic reaction.
If you don't have insurance that will pay for ostomy products and have to pay out of pocket, Medical Monks is a good option. I know there are others on here who have to buy out of pocket and could give you more recommendations.
MeetAnOstoMate.org is the only place where people truly understand you. It's because everyone here has an ostomy.
Many come here for advice or to give advice, others have found good friends, and some have even built long-lasting relationships.
Privacy is very important - there are many features only visible to members.
Does your insurance cover ostomy supplies? If you don’t know, I’d start with calling them. Then just do a search for ostomy supplies or ostomy support groups and contact them.
KAS... A member here has some donated ostomy supplies that might help you out.
I also received some supplies to be donated. That could help you.
Once you know the type of system and stoma size, she and I could help you out.
Alex suggested you contact your insurance company first. Find out who is in network. You have the big three.
Coloplast
Hollister
Convatec
All offer free supplies for first-time users. Give them a call or Google them.
Welcome to the site.👋
Hi and welcome. Education is key on this new journey of yours. I suggest you check out UOAA, United Ostomy Association of America. It's our national organization. Also, Ostomy101.com. You will learn about foods, blockages, skin care, clothing, ostomy products, travel, activities, and a whole host of other tricks of the trade. You might also want to check out a local support group near you. Just remember you are not alone on this new journey of yours. Wearing a pouch does not define who you are. There are solutions. We're here for you. Best of luck.
Check UOAA.org for a local support group; they may have supplies for you or know someone local. Also, try ostomy211.org; they have supplies for people in need.
I might be able to donate a box or two. Long term, if you need cheap ones you could order Chinese ones off AliExpress. I have not done so but they would be even cheaper than my copay. I generally use Hollister products.
Hi!
As warrior said, I have a collection of donated supplies, so once you figure out what you need please send me a private message with what you need and your mailing info and I’ll be happy to send it out to ya.
I was fitted with Hollister and I got a couple of month supply from them. My insurance is Aetna but I am not sure if they cover it or not. I will call them and find out. What is Medical Monks? I found my ostomy products on Amazon but it is expensive.
Hi, welcome Heather.
There are a few things we need to know, as Kas mentioned.
You are using Hollister products. What does the box say as far as measurement or stock number? The diameter of your stoma is important to know. You also stated the stoma is flush, which is definitely going to give you trouble. You need something called convex, which pushes inward into your stomach area, allowing the stoma to extend a bit outward.
A lot of people get revised stomas because being too flush is impossible to seal.
Ask your surgeon why he did this to you and see if he can revise it. This is going to be a major problem for you, as it is with other members chiming in. It gets worse if you cannot get a good seal. If flush, sealing will be very difficult. Let us know your size and product number if you can give us that. Thanks.
And again, welcome. You just left the hospital recently without any training. This is very common, sadly.
But we've got your back...umm, your front too👍
