Ostomy stakeholders develop white paper

WASHINGTON – A customized approach is needed to ensure the needs of individuals with ostomy are successfully managed, according to a new white paper published by a group of stakeholders to educate payers and state Medicaid programs. 

The white paper, developed by AAHomecare, United Ostomy Associations of America, Inc., United Spinal Association, Wound Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society, and Wound Ostomy and Continence Nursing Certification Board, addresses the variables going into managing each person’s ostomy needs, the role of the HME provider, the risks of improper management, and the value of managing ostomy with sustainable reimbursement. 

An estimated 725,000-1,000,000 individuals in the United States are currently living with an ostomy. HME providers work closely with the clinical community and end users to deliver appropriate supplies and provide education and services to people living with an ostomy in a cost-effective, homecare setting. However, continued reductions to reimbursements for ostomy supplies jeopardize access to ostomy supplies and services and increase the risk of adverse health outcomes, which increase costs to the payer and/or health system. 

“Although it is understandable that state Medicaid, as well as federal Medicare spending programs, are under extreme pressure to control costs while still providing quality outcomes, investments in quality ostomy products are crucial and will ultimately assist in controlling these costs and improving patient outcomes,” said Kate Lawrence, MSN, RN, CWOCN, public policy and advocacy coordinator for WOCN. “It is imperative that we continue to educate and advocate on behalf of patients requiring necessary life-saving products and services.”