Question:

What options are available for obtaining ostomy supplies for a Canadian resident in Ontario who cannot afford them, as the costs exceed the coverage provided by the Assistive Devices Program (ADP)? Since Ostomates Worldwide does not donate to individuals within Canada, are there any organizations or programs within Ontario or Canada that provide donated supplies to residents in need?

Answer:

Thank you for your important question, Christina.

In Ontario, aside from the Assistive Devices Program (ADP), Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), and private insurance, there are limited formal funding sources available to help adult patients with the cost of ostomy supplies.

Some Ontario Health at Home (OHaH) programs may offer temporary support with ostomy supplies, particularly for palliative patients or individuals with complex wounds or fistulas. However, this is typically not a long-term solution. The NSWOC Association continues to advocate for expanded ADP coverage, but progress is ongoing.

For patients with financial constraints, here are some additional avenues that may be worth exploring:

1. Local charities
In some cases, organizations such as Good Shepherd or local thrift stores may have ostomy supplies available, though availability is highly inconsistent and based on individual reports.

2. Home care nurses or NSWOCs
Reaching out to local home care nurses or NSWOC professionals may uncover access to donated or excess supplies. In cities without official donation centers, some nurses may have unused products they’re willing to share.

3. NSWOC consultation
Referral to an NSWOC is highly encouraged. These nurses can assess individual needs and help optimize existing funding or suggest cost-saving strategies. This may include switching to a more affordable product type or identifying trusted lower-cost suppliers.

You can search for an NSWOC in your area here:
Find a NSWOC ? – Ostomy Canada Societyostomycanada.ca/find-a-nswoc

4. Local ostomy support groups
These groups sometimes receive donations of supplies from individuals in the community and may be able to offer some limited assistance.

It’s important to exercise caution when using second-hand or donated products. Using items that are not appropriate for the individual’s stoma type, or that have been improperly stored, can lead to leaks, skin damage, or other complications.

You may also want to visit the Facebook page: Ostomy Supplies Exchange Canada — a community platform where ostomates connect to exchange or donate unused ostomy supplies.

We hope that in time, there will be more robust and formal supports available for individuals facing financial barriers to essential ostomy care.

Answered by

Tom Chang, RN, NSWOC
Medical and Lifestyle Advisory Committee
Ostomy Canada Society