How to Request Ostomy Product Samples and Get Your Supplies Covered by Medicare

Finding an ostomy pouch that fits well and stays secure often takes some trial and error. Ostomy product samples let you test pouches, skin barriers and accessories before you commit to a full month's order, and most manufacturers will send them on request.

This guide explains how to make an ostomy sample request, what to ask for, how to test ostomy bag samples properly, and how Medicare coverage for ostomy supplies works once you have found the products that suit you.

Why Try Ostomy Samples Before You Order

No single ostomy system works for everyone. The right pouch depends on your stoma's size, shape and how far it sticks out, the contour of the skin around it, and the type of ostomy you have. It is common to try several types of products before finding the one that works for you, and samples let you do that without buying full boxes you may not use.

Samples are also useful later on. Stomas can change size over time, and a product that worked at first may stop sealing well.

How to Request Ostomy Product Samples

Know your details. Have your stoma size, your ostomy type (colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy) and the product codes of anything you use now.
Contact the manufacturer. Call a manufacturer's toll-free number or use its online sample request form. Ask for samples from two or three different manufacturers so you can compare.
Ask your supplier. The medical supplier that ships your ostomy supplies can often send samples too, including products that work with your insurance.
Talk to an ostomy nurse. A wound, ostomy and continence (WOC) nurse can recommend products for your stoma and skin, and many can request samples for you.

What to Ask For

One-piece or two-piece systems: one-piece pouches are attached to the skin barrier; two-piece systems let you change the pouch without removing the barrier.
Flat or convex barriers: convex barriers can help when a stoma sits flush with the skin or the skin around it dips.
Drainable or closed pouches: drainable pouches can be emptied; closed pouches are replaced.
Cut-to-fit or pre-cut openings: cut-to-fit barriers help if your stoma is oval or still changing size.
Accessories: barrier rings, belts and adhesive removers can solve fit problems without changing your whole system.

For more on choosing between options, see our guide to ostomy bag options, samples and care tips.

How to Test Your Samples

Wear each sample for several days, not just one change.
Note how long the seal lasts, whether it leaks, how the skin around your stoma looks, and how it feels during daily activity.
If you see redness or soreness, talk to an ostomy nurse before switching again. The answer may be a different barrier or an accessory rather than a new pouch.

Our guide to finding a comfortable ostomy bag fit has more fit tips.

Medicare Coverage for Ostomy Supplies

Once you know which products work for you, Medicare can help pay for them. Medicare Part B covers medically necessary ostomy supplies under its prosthetic device benefit if you have had a colostomy, ileostomy or urinary ostomy. It pays for the amount of supplies your doctor says you need based on your condition.

Your share: after you meet the Part B deductible ($283 in 2026), you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount.
Typical monthly amounts: suppliers report that Medicare usually allows up to 20 drainable pouches and up to 20 skin barriers a month. More can be approved when your doctor documents the need.
Use a Medicare-enrolled supplier: supplies bought from a supplier that is not enrolled in Medicare may not be covered, and you could owe the full amount.

Ask your doctor or ostomy nurse for a prescription that lists the exact products and quantities you need, so your supplier can bill Medicare correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I request ostomy samples?

Call a manufacturer's toll-free number or use its online sample request form, or ask your medical supplier or ostomy nurse. Have your stoma size and ostomy type ready.

Do ostomy samples cost anything?

Ostomy manufacturers commonly send samples at no charge so you can try products before ordering.

Does Medicare cover ostomy bags?

Yes. Medicare Part B pays for medically necessary ostomy supplies, including pouches and skin barriers, if you have had a colostomy, ileostomy or urinary ostomy. You pay 20% of the approved amount after the Part B deductible.

How many ostomy bags does Medicare cover per month?

Medicare pays for the amount your doctor says you need. Suppliers report typical allowances of up to 20 drainable pouches and 20 skin barriers a month, with more possible when your doctor documents the need.

Final Thoughts

Requesting ostomy product samples from a few manufacturers is the simplest way to find a system that fits well and protects your skin. Test each one for several days, involve an ostomy nurse if problems come up, and once you have found the right products, get a prescription so Medicare or your insurance can help pay for them.

This article is general information, not medical advice. Talk with your doctor or ostomy nurse about the products that are right for you.