Stoma Appliance Scheme
This section of the website contains information on the Stoma Appliance Scheme.
The Stoma Appliance Scheme (SAS), subsidised by the Australian Government, provides stoma related products free of charge to people with stomas.
About the Scheme
To be eligible to receive products under the Stoma Appliance Scheme a person must have temporary or permanent artificial body opening (whether created surgically or otherwise) which facilitates the removal of urine or products of the gastrointestinal tract where the person does not have normal gastrointestinal tract or bladder functions.
During 2011-12, approximately 40,000 people with stomas accessed the SAS through approved volunteer stoma associations. The stoma associations purchase stoma related products from suppliers and distribute to their members as required.
The choice of products which a member uses is guided by a Stomal Therapy Nurse (STN) who is specifically trained to advise on the use of stomal products following colostomy or ileostomy surgery. The STN will select and discuss products they feel are appropriate for the patient taking into consideration their lifestyle requirements.
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