Increased coverage will further support Islanders under the Ostomy Supplies Program (OSP).

“Ostomy supplies can be costly, and this should not be a barrier to receiving the appropriate care. I am pleased that more Islanders will be supported through this increase to the income thresholds, bringing OSP in line with our Insulin Pump Program thresholds. By providing additional funding assistance for these supplies, Islanders can concentrate on managing their health and improving their quality of life.” 

- Health and Wellness Minister James Aylward

Since January 2019, approximately 250 Islanders have received assistance through the provincial Ostomy Supplies Program each year. 
 
Effective January 1, 2021, changes to the program will increase coverage per income threshold:

• Those with a household income of $0 to $19,999 will be eligible for 100 per cent coverage (previously 90 per cent coverage); 
• Those with a household income of $20,000 to $39,999 will be eligible for 95 per cent coverage (previously 80 per cent coverage); and 
• Those with a household income of $40,000 to $49,999 will be eligible for 90 per cent coverage (previously 80 per cent coverage).

“Over the last year, the Ostomy Supplies Program has successfully assisted Islanders who would otherwise be struggling with the costs associated with a permanent Ostomy,” said Tanya Tynski, Health PEI Executive Director of Pharmacare. “With the high cost for Ostomy supplies, Islanders who are eligible for the program should apply to help offset any extra expenses, especially around the holidays.”

The Ostomy Supplies Program assists with the costs associated with a permanent ostomy. Islanders may be eligible for coverage to assist with the out-of-pocket cost of ostomy supplies to a maximum of $2,400 per full program year (from July 1 – June 30).

Under the program, eligible supplies include:

• Skin wafers
• Ostomy pouches
• Adhesive removers
• Skin barrier wipes
• Stoma powders, pastes and barrier rings
• Ostomy belts

Media contact:
Samantha Hughes
Senior Communications Officer
Health and Wellness
(902) 368-5610
shughes@gov.pe.ca (link sends e-mail)