This discussion is about comparing the prices of ostomy products from three major manufacturers: Hollister, Coloplast, and Convatec. The person who started the conversation has used products from all three companies and is seeking advice from others about which brand offers the most affordable options.

Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. In the U.S., many people with ostomies don't see the actual prices of their supplies because these are billed directly to insurance. Invoices typically show the retail price, the insurer-negotiated amount, and the patient's co-pay or deductible.

2. An example of U.S. invoice prices for Hollister products before insurance adjustments includes:
- Hollister ostomy powder 1 oz: $27.40
- Hollister lubricating deodorant 8 oz: $58.68
- Hollister wafer/flange, box of 5: $122.11
- Hollister pouch/bag, box of 10: $107.70
- Hollister spray adhesive remover 3.4 oz: $63.15
- Hollister adhesive remover wipes, box of 50: $44.50
- Coloplast Brava moldable rings, box of 10: $136.90

3. Insurance often inflates the list price, but once the deductible is met, the out-of-pocket cost for patients can decrease significantly. For instance, a shipment listed at $4,000 was reduced to $278 after insurance adjustments.

4. Buying supplies out-of-pocket online, such as through Amazon, or looking for sales can sometimes be cheaper than using insurance, especially for accessories like deodorant, remover wipes, and powders.

5. In the U.S., supply distributors like Edgepark and Byram are mentioned. Edgepark invoices show the difference between retail and insurance payments, while Byram's online portal may not show pricing once the annual maximum or out-of-pocket limit is reached.

6. Outside the U.S., the situation varies:
- In Australia and England, government programs provide ostomy supplies for free after a small annual fee of about A$100.
- In the Netherlands, universal insurance covers supplies. Retail prices are similar to U.S. list prices, but patients do not pay these amounts.

7. For countries without coverage, successful government funding for ostomy supplies often began when ostomates formed a lobby group and advocated for their needs.