The topic at hand is about the challenges faced by individuals with an ileostomy when trying to purchase ostomy supplies. Many find it frustrating that prices are not readily available, and when they are, they often seem suspiciously similar across different vendors. This raises concerns about possible price-fixing and makes it difficult to find a fair price for necessary items like pouches and barriers. Here are some helpful insights and advice for navigating this situation:

- It's common for medical supply catalogs to omit prices to avoid frequent reprinting. Expect high and nearly uniform prices.
- To get accurate pricing, call each supplier directly. Record the part number, quoted price, date, and the representative's name, as prices can change without notice.
- Insurance and Medicare strategies:
1. Some people wait until they've met their annual deductible or out-of-pocket maximum so that insurance covers most costs.
2. Others choose to pay cash to avoid paperwork, as suppliers often offer cash discounts.
3. Verify if suppliers like Edgepark, Liberty Medical, Byram Medical, Shield, and Mega Medical file claims with your insurer before ordering.
- For the lowest-cost suppliers and buying channels:
1. Mega Medical is noted as particularly affordable, with significant savings on items like Hollister caps.
2. eBay can offer surplus or estate supplies at steep discounts, but always check expiration dates.
3. Amazon stocks FDA-approved Chinese pouches, though prices can vary.
4. Some brick-and-mortar stores in New York charge up to $60 for ten bags.
- Sample prices paid by users:
1. In the USA, insured users paid around $35 for a box of ten 1-piece pouches after insurance.
2. Cash buyers in the USA paid $60 for Hollister caps through Mega Medical.
3. In Canada and Europe, a box of thirty 1-piece bags is listed at CAD/€297 but is often fully reimbursed.
4. In Australia, an annual admin fee of AUD $60–70 covers all supplies, with a reminder not to over-order to protect the national scheme.
- Alternative or no-cost sources:
1. Local ostomy support groups may have "take what you need" tables with donated supplies.
2. Charities in places like Florida ship free supplies to those without insurance.
3. Fellow ostomates often give away surplus stock, so it's worth asking the community.
- Brands, products, and part numbers mentioned include Hollister 1796 caps, Hollister CeraPlus New Image skin barrier #11202, matching drainable pouch #18122, 3M Cavilon Skin Barrier wipes, Nu-Hope Stoma Belts, and M9 Odor Eliminator drops.
- Practical tips:
1. Before choosing a distributor, ask if they carry every item on your prescription, bill your specific insurance, and offer free shipping or cash discounts.
2. Keep track of price quotes in writing, as suppliers can change prices between inquiries and checkout.
3. If insurance coverage is generous, order up to the monthly allotment and donate any surplus to groups or individuals in need.
4. When buying online, compare lot numbers and "use-by" dates to avoid expired products.