This topic is about finding ways to save money and reduce waste by reusing ostomy supplies, specifically flanges and exploring reusable ostomy systems. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by a Canadian ostomate who has developed a method for reusing these supplies:

1. After removing the flange or pouch, rinse it with a hand-held shower.
2. Seal it in a zipper-type plastic bag filled with water and let it soak for 24-48 hours to dissolve any residual paste.
3. Give it a final rinse and let it air-dry.
4. For re-attachment, use half a Coloplast Strip Paste plus Hollister Karaya paste, which can provide 4-7 days of wear time.
5. Keep a small stock of cleaned flanges for emergencies, such as late deliveries or insurance limits.
6. Purchase supplies from Shoppers Home Healthcare in Canada, using an Optimum Card for about a 20% discount.
7. Commonly used products include Coloplast 10021 & 10023 flanges, Convatec and Hollister systems, and Hollister pouch 14703.

Additional insights include:

- Some flanges, like Coloplast 10021, can be worn for a cumulative three weeks over multiple uses and may adhere better on the second application.
- Leaks often occur when the peristomal skin isn't perfectly clean, so meticulous cleaning before re-application is crucial.
- In Canada, there are reimbursement options: a provincial grant of CA$300 twice yearly and a federal CA$7,600 tax deduction, with a small prescription co-pay for seniors.
- There is a concern about the availability of true reusable products, as they were not found on Marlen’s website.

Advice and insights on reusable options and emergency tactics:

- Reusable appliance options are still available, such as Perma-Type systems, which require adhesive or bonding cement and significantly reduce plastic waste.
- Marlen MDW-10-20 reusable pouches and Torbot faceplate #8404-09 can be used, with pouches clipped to the faceplate and disinfected weekly with a bleach rinse.
- In emergencies or when supplies are low, tape an existing wafer in place until new supplies arrive, but be cautious as prolonged use can lead to skin infection if stool contacts the skin.
- In a pinch, some have used baggies and duct tape.
- Reuse a single pouch for up to two days by flushing it with a small amount of bleach, ensuring the bleach solution never touches the skin.

Skin protection and cost-saving tips:

- Infections can occur if improvised seals allow effluent onto the skin, so thorough cleaning and a good seal are essential when reusing any component.
- U.S. Medicare still covers disposable supplies, while Canadians can offset costs with provincial grants, federal tax deductions, and pharmacy loyalty programs like Shoppers Optimum, which offers 20% off.