Innovative Application for Ostomy Supply Management and Output Tracking

The person with an ostomy, whether new or well-established, faces a wide range of challenges adjusting to living with the ostomy and coping with day-to-day ostomy management.   While there are a variety of online resources for ostomy care, it is only recently that mobile device applications related to ostomy management have emerged.  The use of advancing new technology can assist patients in a wide range of age groups.

One such application developed for both Android, iOS (iPhone, iPad) involves management of ostomy supplies and setting up reminders for the next appliance change.  The user can establish a pouch change schedule and, along with appliance change reminders, the “app” maintains a history record of pouch changes while tracking remaining supplies.

Initial set-up of the “app” includes entering:

• Current ostomy supplies, product name, manufacturer, item number

• Quantity of supplies on hand

• Normal wear-time

• Set-up reminders for next appliance change

• Set-up alert for when it is time to re-order supplies

• Supplier name and phone number

Using this “app” reduces worry of counting or running out by showing exact supply levels, alerting when any supply level is low and time to re-order.  (Amount is set according to individual preferences.)  The “app” allows the user to contact their medical supplier to order supplies with one simple click or tap.  Other advantages include having a complete list of supplies and item numbers for re-ordering, especially helpful if needs arise when traveling away from normal supplier.   

The “app” is designed for potential expansion as technology upgrades, requests, and needs arise.  Current development includes ability to scan product barcodes for ease of entering items and a much needed Ostomy Output Tracking feature that can help provide information important to the patient and medical professionals in fostering prevention of dehydration and re-admission.