This topic is about understanding how different countries support the cost of ostomy appliances through government or insurance subsidies. The goal is to gather information on whether there are any schemes in place, how much of the cost is covered, and any limits or additional details that might be relevant. Here’s a summary of the insights and advice gathered from various countries:

1. United Kingdom
- The National Health Service (NHS) covers 100% of ostomy supplies with no quantity limits.
- Patients with a Prescription Exemption Card pay nothing for their supplies or any other prescriptions.

2. Australia
- The Commonwealth Stoma Appliance Scheme (SAS) provides subsidized supplies.
- There are monthly quantity limits for most items, and some items like hernia support belts are allocated annually.
- A full list of entitlements is available from the Department of Health.

3. New Zealand
- Ostomy products are supplied free of charge by Local District Health Boards, funded by the Ministry of Health.
- A Stomal Nurse decides the type and quantity of supplies, with flexibility in brand choice.

4. Indonesia
- There is no government subsidy, so patients must cover the full cost of their supplies.

5. United States
- Private insurance plans can reimburse about 90% of costs.
- Medicare Part B covers 80% of the approved amount, with the remaining 20% being out-of-pocket or covered by a supplemental policy.
- Medicare has strict quantity caps, and managed-care plans may have tighter limits and require new prescriptions for changes.
- Combining Medicare with Tri-care can lead to full coverage.
- In California, Medicare combined with Medi-Cal can provide large shipments, and surplus supplies can be donated.

6. Canada
- Coverage varies by province, with some offering a fixed annual allowance that may increase with disability status.
- In Saskatchewan, the province covers 50% of costs, and private insurance can cover about 80% of the remaining balance, leaving minimal cost to the patient.

The topic also highlights a concern about global inequities, noting that many low-income countries lack formal support, leading people to use improvised solutions.