Service specification
A stoma service in the pharmacy sector refers to the support provided to patients who have undergone surgery to create a stoma—an artificial opening in the abdomen that allows waste (faeces or urine) to exit the body into a pouch. This is common after operations for conditions like bowel cancer, Crohn’s disease, or bladder issues.
What Does the Service Include?
- Supply of Stoma Appliances and Accessories
- Patients need specialist products such as stoma bags, baseplates, skin barriers, and disposal items.
- Pharmacies or Dispensing Appliance Contractors (DACs) supply these items based on NHS prescriptions.
- Products are listed in Part IXC of the Drug Tariff.
- Customisation of Appliances
- Some stoma appliances require Stoma Appliance Customisation (SAC) to fit the patient’s measurements for comfort and to prevent leakage.
- Advice and Support
- Pharmacists provide guidance on stoma care, skin protection, and managing complications like leakage or irritation.
- They also advise on medication issues (e.g., absorption changes, high-output stomas) and when to refer to a stoma nurse.
- Prescription Management
- Patients receive prescriptions from their GP or stoma nurse and can choose where to have them dispensed (pharmacy or DAC).
- Home Delivery
- Many suppliers offer home delivery for convenience, especially for patients with mobility issues.
How It Works in Practice
- After surgery, the hospital stoma nurse sets up the patient with initial supplies and explains the process.
- The patient then gets repeat prescriptions from their GP.
- The pharmacy or DAC dispenses the products, customises them if needed, and may deliver them.
Why Is It Important?
- Ensures patients have the right products for comfort and hygiene.
- Reduces complications like skin damage or leakage.
- Supports independence and quality of life for people living with a stoma.