This topic is about a new, fully-online prescription and delivery system for ostomy supplies in the UK. It involves a streamlined process between a GP surgery and Charter Healthcare, making it easier and faster to get the necessary supplies. Here’s how it works and some helpful advice:

1. The prescription request is generated and printed at home.
2. The print-out is dropped into a box at the GP surgery.
3. The surgery emails the prescription directly to Charter Healthcare.
4. Charter dispatches the order via Parcel Force, reducing the turnaround time from about 10 days to 5 days.

This system has helped reduce the anxiety of running low on supplies. Here are some additional insights and advice:

- Prescription transmission problems can occur. To avoid issues, collect the paper prescription yourself and send it tracked first-class to Charter Healthcare. Keep a small buffer by ordering essential items separately until stock levels improve. If supplies run critically low, call Charter Healthcare for emergency samples; they can issue next-day "special delivery."

- Consider reusable and DIY options. A simple home-made adaptor can allow reuse of Dansac irrigation sleeves, reducing dependence on disposables. Necessity may drive further DIY solutions, so test prototypes to avoid future shortages.

- Explore alternative drainage or emptying methods. A leg-mounted drainable urine bag, commonly strapped just above the ankle with a tap, could be adapted to a stoma pouch via a long tube and valve, so clothing need not be removed.

- Compare suppliers. Fittleworth offers monthly telephone checks, obtains the electronic script from the surgery, and typically delivers in 10-12 days. They have provided free emergency overseas deliveries, illustrating reliable customer service. Charter Healthcare remains efficient when prescriptions are received electronically, but communication gaps between GP and supplier can occur.

- Engage with your GP and the NHS. The Electronic Prescription Service (EPS) noticeably speeds up processing. Demonstrating a bag change or showing actual supplies to surgery staff can highlight clinical necessity. If a GP restricts quantities, escalate by requesting a review, involving continence or stoma nurses, or writing to an MP.