Accessing and managing ostomy supplies for your infant or child

An ostomy can be a helpful — even lifesaving — procedure for an infant or child who was born with a defect in the urinary tract, who needs certain types of cancer treatment, or who has other health needs. After your child's ostomy procedure, a nurse will show you how to clean the skin around your child's stoma and attach, empty, and replace an ostomy pouch. But once your child is discharged from the hospital, you'll be responsible for caring for their ostomy. You'll need ostomy supplies on hand so that you can manage your child's care at home.

You and your child should get used to your new daily routine, which will include emptying, changing, and caring for your child's ostomy pouch and stoma. When you run into problems or have questions about the products that you're using, an ostomy nurse may be able to help you troubleshoot. It's also helpful to have a relationship with the company that sends your child's supplies. Edgepark's Customer Care team can answer any questions that you may have about pouches, barriers, and more, as well as questions that you may have about health insurance coverage of your child's supplies.

Here's what to keep in mind as you and your child begin life with an ostomy.

Choosing the right ostomy supplies for your child

There is a variety of ostomy products available, and the options may seem overwhelming. Your child's doctor may recommend specific products when your child is first sent home from the hospital. If that initial product doesn't suit your needs, there are many other ostomy products available. Your child's doctor, an ostomy nurse, or an Edgepark Customer Care team member may make product recommendations based on your child's circumstances. They may also make product suggestions as your child gets older and outgrows certain pouches or other supplies.

You may be inclined to keep an abundance of ostomy supplies on hand so that you don't run out. But stockpiling too many supplies isn't recommended as certain products have expiration dates, and you won't be able to use them once they've expired. Also, depending on your insurance provider, stockpiling may be prohibited. Your child might also outgrow different items as they get bigger, causing you to be stuck with products that you can't use anymore.

With time and experience, you'll learn how many ostomy products to keep at home. Edgepark's ContinuCare service, a no-charge reorder reminder program, can help you strike the right balance: You'll get email reminders when it's time to order more supplies, so you won't run out. This can help you feel confident enough not to over-purchase items since you know you'll have the right amount at home.

Insurance coverage for ostomy supplies

Most private insurance plans cover ostomy supplies, but coverage details vary by individual plans. To find out what your plan covers, check with your insurance company or reach out to Edgepark's Customer Care department. The helpful Customer Care team can connect with your insurance company on your behalf to find out what your plan covers so that you don't have to call.

If your child qualifies for Medicaid, it's likely that their supplies will be covered by insurance. Medicaid guidelines don't require that ostomy products must be covered, but most states do cover them. Recently, several states expanded their Medicaid coverage to include extended-wear products. Because Medicaid coverage differs in every state, check with your state's plan to see what's covered. You can also speak with someone on Edgepark's Customer Care team, who can help you figure out what Medicaid covers in your state.

To learn more about pediatric ostomy supplies, or to order products from a supplier with a Customer Care department that can answer questions about products and insurance, visit Edgepark's website.