Medicare considers ostomy bags and related supplies as prosthetic devices. This means Medicare should cover them as long as they’re ordered by a doctor or other healthcare professional who works with Medicare.
Medicare Part B covers ostomy supplies you may need if you’ve had an ileostomy, colostomy, or urinary ostomy.
In addition, if you’ve opted to enroll in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, you’ll get the same coverage as you would under Original Medicare.
The ostomy supplies you can get under Part B or C include:
- the ostomy pouch with tubing
- clamp
- adhesive and adhesive remover
- liquid or powder-based skin barriers
- ostomy belt
- ostomy deodorant
- absorbent material
- tape
- wipes
- appliance cleaner
- gauze
You do need a prescription to get ostomy supplies. The number you’ll need can depend on several factors, such as the type and location of your ostomy, how it’s constructed, and the condition of your skin around the stoma.
Medicare will cover a specific amount of each type of ostomy supply, so it’s important that your doctor notes the amount you need on the prescription and Medicare claim form.
According to the United Ostomy Associations of America, ostomy supplies can cost between $300 and $600 without insurance.
That said, Medicare Part B will pay for 80% of this cost if you’ve met your deductible, which is $257 in 2025. You also have to pay a monthly premium of $185 or higher, depending on your income.
Under Part C, your copay, deductible, and premium will depend on your plan. According to the Centers for Medicaid & Medicare (CMS), the average monthly premium for Part C plans is around $17 in 2025.
In addition, to be enrolled in a Part C plan, you still have to pay the Part B premium. That said, some Part C may cover your Part B premium.