Affordable Care Act – Breast Pumps Now Covered By Insurance
As of August 2nd, 2012, the federal Affordable Care Act has expanded access to preventative care for women on insurance policies. These new provisions include many health services for women, including breast pumps and breastfeeding instruction for new mothers.
From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (Healthcare.gov) pertaining to these new measures for women's preventative care:
Breastfeeding support, supplies, and counseling: Pregnant and postpartum women will have access to comprehensive lactation support and counseling from trained providers, as well as breastfeeding equipment. Breastfeeding is one of the most effective preventive measures mothers can take to protect their health and that of their children. One of the barriers for breastfeeding is the cost of purchasing or renting breast pumps and nursing related supplies.
Will my insurance cover the cost of breast pumps?
These new measures will include your insurance coverage. New mothers with Medicaid are also eligible. However, the measures are unclear as to what kind of equipment must be provided (manual or automatic), or in the case of rentals, how long it is to be provided for. Some insurance plans will also likely require a copay for your breast pumps.
To know what your insurance provider makes available to you, call them directly. Alternately, contact us for recommendations or with questions about obtaining breast pump equipment under your specific insurance coverage. Our staff can help those with Medicaid, Healthlink, or Blue Cross Blue Shield, Missouri.
(Due to insurance contractual changes, we can only ship BCBS orders to a Missouri address. We are sorry for any inconvenience. If you have questions, please contact us at 1-800-950-6020.)
How can I get a breast pump from STL Medical Supply?
While there are many options of medical suppliers available to provide breast pump equipment, we are happy to help you obtain breast pump equipment under your insurance plan or Medicaid. Currently, we are providing breast pump equipment available from Medela. Our Maternity Breast Pumps page has more information about these specific supplies available to you.
To get started:
- Contact STL Medical Supply at 1-800-950-6020 (Mon-Fri, 9am - 5:30pm)
- Visit our insurance page to download the forms and patient packet.
- Complete the forms and send them to us via email (scanned), fax or postage mail.
- Once we receive your paperwork, we'll ensure you're covered, process your order, and ship your breast pump equipment to you.
STL Medical Supply Now Ships Internationally
Today we are pleased to announce that we can now provide our catalog of home medical supplies to locations outside of the United States. We have partnered with global distributor Bongo International to do this while maintaining our high standards for professional service, low prices and reasonable shipping rates.
For those of you residing in Canada, Australia, Mexico, Europe, Africa and Asia, we are very excited to extend online shopping to the thousands of you who have visited our site but were unable to ship an order.
We encourage you to visit stlmedical.com - to see shipping rates to your address, simply fill your basket and click the "International Customer Secure Checkout" button on the Basket page, like this:
Shop Now
World Ostomy Day is October 6th – Help Raise Awareness For Ostomy & Save 10% This Weekend Only
World Ostomy Day is a day to recognize ostomates, their caregivers and families and to raise awareness for this life-saving surgery. The event, organized by the United Ostomy Association of America has spurred a number of activities for October 6th, 2012:
Convatec World Ostomy Day Video Contest
UOAA Facebook Page is having a "virtual picnic" in the afternoon.
Find a comprehensive list of events here and here. (PDF)
Raising Awareness for Ostomy
Ostomy is a life-saving procedure for hundreds of thousands of people in the United States alone.
We have put together a page that explains some basics about what stomy is and some of the reasons why people would have ostomy surgery: What is Ostomy? Help spread education about Ostomy and share this with your friends and family!
Get 10% Off Ostomy Supplies thru Oct. 7th
From Friday, October 5th thru Sunday, October 7th, get 10% off all products listed in our Ostomy Supplies store category with this coupon:
Includes all Hollister, Coloplast and Convatec ostomy products.
As always, all orders over $50 are also eligible for our free UPS Ground Shipping offer. (Free Shipping Policy) Note: Sorry, we cannot combine coupons with any order submitted to insurance.
We'll Sponsor Your Support Group Website
We proudly host and sponsor the website for the local UOAA STL. Many support groups do not have the knowledge or resources to create an online presence to easily and quickly share information and socialize online.
We would love to help and we are currently accepting applications for more local support groups across the country. Please see our Website Sponsorship page for more information.
One Last Thing - Check Out the Ostomy Buyer's Guides
We find that many of our customers often feel "trapped" into using one type of pouching system or one type of accessory. For those whose products are not living up to their expectations or the costs are rising for their current products, we encourage reading our online product reviews and trying a different brand and/or pouching system.
We want shopping for your supplies to be fast, easy and painless. Our new buyer's guides aim help to break down and explain the differences between the dozens of pouching options available and make recommendations among our top sellers. You can find our first two buyer's guides here:
Buyer's Guide for Ostomy Pouch Systems
Buyer's Guide for Ostomy Odor Control Products
New – Brava Ostomy Supplies and Accessories from Coloplast
STL Medical Supply now features the Brava line of ostomy supplies from Coloplast. Brava are sting-free solutions with no alcohol for the regular maintenance and care of a stoma.
Brava ostomy accessories are designed to reduce leakage and provide you with peace of mind without sacrificing comfort. Every product in the Brava line are both Latex Free and sting-free (no alcohol content) for the regular maintenance and care of a stoma:
- Provides a tight seal for the stoma
- Absorbs moisture without breaking down
- Easy to handle and mold
- $65.95 for a box of 10
- Provides a tight seal for the stoma
- Absorbs moisture without breaking down
- Easy to handle and mold
- $65.95 for a box of 10
Brava Adhesive Remover Spray - 1.7 fl oz (50 mL)
- Easy removal of adhesives
- Dries within seconds
- Sting-free application
- $17.55 each
Brava Adhesive Remover Wipes (30/Box)
- Easy removal of adhesives
- Dries within seconds
- Sting-free application
- $22.95 per Box
Brava Skin Barrier Spray - 1.7 fl oz (50 mL)
- Helps protect the skin against stoma output and adhesives
- Dries within seconds
- Sting free Application
- $20.95 Each
Brava Skin Barrier Wipes (30/Box)
- Helps protect the skin against stoma output and adhesives
- Dries within seconds
- Sting free Application
- $23.95
Brava Elastic Barrier Strips (20/Box)
- Skin-friendly elastic strips for extra security and wear time.
- Follows the contours of your body
- Ensures correct barrier positioning and prevents roll-up
- $43.95 per Box
- Pectin-Based
- Protects skin from stoma output
- Fills uneven skin surfaces for a flat pouch surface.
- $1.55 Each
Brava Protective Sheets - 4 x 4 in. (10 x 10 cm)
- Hydrocolloid barrier to protect the skin from stoma output
- Effective protection for peristomal skin
- Easy to apply to provide a ready surface for adhesion.
- $55.95 per Box of 10
Brava Protective Sheets - 6 x 6 in. (15 x 15 cm)
- Hydrocolloid barrier to protect the skin from stoma output
- Effective protection for peristomal skin
- Easy to apply to provide a ready surface for adhesion.
- $59.95 per Box of 5
Brava Protective Sheets - 8 x 8 in. (20 x 20 cm)
- Hydrocolloid barrier to protect the skin from stoma output
- Effective protection for peristomal skin
- Easy to apply to provide a ready surface for adhesion.
- $102.95 per Box of 5
Online Specials on Select Male Impotence & Urological Products
This week we've rolled out temporary price drops on a selection of our most popular male impotence and urological products. These prices are for online orders only. Simply add the product to your basket to get the discounted pricing - no coupon codes are required! These price drops are temporary - so take advantage of them today.
- Erec-Tech Manual System - Was $335.95, Now $269.95
- Erec-Tech Battery System - Was $369.95, Now $289.95
- Osbon Surerec EZ Tension Ring - Size 7 - Was $26.95, Now $23.95
- Osbon Surerec EZ Tension Ring - Size 6 - Was $26.95, Now $23.95
- Osbon Surerec EZ Tension Ring - Size 5 - Was $26.95, Now $23.95
- Osbon Surerec EZ Tension Ring - Size 4 - Was $26.95, Now $23.95
- Osbon Esteem Battery Operated ErecAid System - Was $399.95, Now $379.95
- Osbon Esteem Manual Operated ErecAid System - Was $349.95, Now $329.95
- Osbon ErecAid® - Pink - Medium High Tension Ring - Was $20.95, Now $19.95
- Osbon ErecAid® - Pink - Large; High Tension Ring - Was $20.95, Now $19.95
- Osbon ErecAid® - Beige - Large; Standard Tension Ring - Was $20.95, Now $19.95
- Rochester Wide Band External Catheters - Was $1.65, Now $1.45
- Rochester Pop-On External Catheters - Was $1.55, Now $1.25
- Combination Douche & Enema System (1-1/2 Quart Bottle) - Was $9.35, Now $7.95
- Coloplast Speedicath Compact Female Intermittent Catheter - Was $3.49, Now $2.75
- Bard Statlock® Foley Stabilization Device for Silicone Catheters - Was $7.99, Now $5.96
- Bard Statlock® Foley Stabilization Device - Was $8.99, Now $6.95
Basic Skin Care for the Adult with Incontinence
Urine and stool are chemical irritants that can destroy the top layer of skin and provide an environment that is ideal for the growth of microorganisms such as yeast and bacteria.
When skin becomes waterlogged from incontinence, it is more susceptible to damage by friction, abrasion and bacteria and is more likely to become ulcerated.
Key Ingredients for Incontinence Products
It is important to use cleansers and moisturizers formulated with ingredients that act to decrease water loss, increase moisture retention, and decrease friction. Soap and skin cleansers with detergent ingredients, such as ammonium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, and sodium lauryl sulfate may do more harm than good. They are very drying, and therefore too harsh for sensitive skin and for the frequent cleansing required for individuals with incontinence.
Ingredients that Work
- Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) such as grapeseed oil, soybean oil, kukui nut oil, macadamia nut oil and tocopheryl linoeate.
- Mucopolysaccharides
- Emollients, such as aloe vera, almond oil, apricot kernel oil, dimethicone copolyol, chamomile extract, arnica extract and calendula extract.
- Humectants, such as despanthenol, fibronectin, propylene glycol and glycerine.
- Lubricants and protectants such as dimethicone.
Procedure
Clean the skin as soon as possible after urine or stool comes in contact with the skin. Gentle cleansing with a soft cloth, warm water and specially formulated skin cleanser that minimizes irritation and dryness should be used after each incontinent episode.
Suggested products include:
- Aloe Vesta Perineal Foam from Convatec
- Elta Cleanse Perineal Foam from Elta
- Coloplast Bedside Care Perineal Wash
Moisturize the skin to replenish surface water and help keep the skin soft and supple.
Suggested products include:
Protect the skin by applying a moisture barrier product if the person's skin is raw or irritated, to hold moisture in the skin and help block chemicals found in urine and stool.
Suggested Petrolatum-based Products
Effective moisture barriers to increase moisture retention. However, they do not permit the skin to breathe and should be discontinued when the skin has healed. Products containing Petrolatum include:
- Aloe Vesta Protective Ointment from Convatec
- Aloe Vesta 2-n-1 Moisturizer and Protective Ointment
- Hollister Restore Cleanser and Moisturizer
- Lantiseptic Skin Protectant
Suggested Zinc-Oxide-Based Products
These products are also effective moisture barriers and increase the skin's ability to retain moisture. They do not permit the skin to breathe and should be discontinued when the skin has healed. Products containing Zinc-Oxide include:
- Baza-Pro Cream from Sween
- Coloplast Baza Protect
- Secura EPC Protective Cream
- Elta Seal Moisture Barrier
- Calmoseptine
(Also contains Petrolatum)
(Also contains Petrolatum)
(Also contains Petrolatum)
Skin Irritation and Infections
If skin is weakened and/or not treated as frequently as necessary, it may require the use of a protective and moisturizing cream that includes an anti-fungal such as Miconazole Nitrate. Suggested products:
- ConvaTec Aloe Vesta Antifungal Ointment
- Coloplast® Critic-Aid® Clear AF - Clear Moisture Barrier with Antifungal
Making Online Ostomy Supply Easier
"What is the best ostomy pouching system?" It's sort of like asking the "best" clothes to wear, or the "best" hair style. There is no "best". The human body comes in many shapes and sizes, and pouching systems must must conform for a fit that provides the best security and performance for that individual's lifestyle.
The good news is these products exist. The bad news is we have an overwhelming selection of systems, adhesives, removers, wipes and accessories. There are literally thousands of options to choose from, and narrowing them down isn't always easy.
As a supplier, it is our goal to provide the best value for ostomy supplies online. When we think of "value", we think of prices, but we also think about all of the things we do to help the end user. We do more, and here those things that distinguish us:
Providing the Best Price
We can't talk about online shopping value without talking about price. With free shipping for orders over $50, volume pricing options on pouches and barriers, and regular discounts through our newsletter, we have one of the most competitive offerings for ostomy supplies online.
Our Dedication to Service - "We'll Cut It For You"
"Reliable shipping, phone and ticket support, blah-blah-blah. What's so special about that?"
We agree, these things are just common sense. We stock our own inventory for most of our ostomy supplies and we usually ship in-stock orders the same day if ordered before 3PM CST. We have real person support available via phone, email, and in person during business hours.
But did you know our staff and nurses will cut your skin barriers for you? Before you add any cut-to-fit barriers to your shopping basket, you can optionally tell us the opening diameter you need. We'll save you time and effort by cutting the opening on each barrier to your exact size. You'll receive them ready to use with no hassles and at no additional charge.
Interactive Product Catalogs
Sizes, colors, Pieces, HCPCS Codes, stock numbers, oh my. Anyone who has ever flipped through a printed catalog for ostomy supplies knows how time consuming this hunt can be. There is more choice in ostomy supplies than the entire paper towel aisle at the grocery store.
Paper catalogs simply don't provide near the level of information for the end user, so we built a few interactive product catalogs (linked below). You can search these catalogs to instantly find anything you need. For instance: search for "Green" to find which pouches will match a Hollister "Green" barrier. Search any HCPCS code to only see its products.
Any linked product code will jump to that product's page for a full description, photo, pricing, and any reviews from other customers who have used the product. Go ahead, give them a spin:
It's our part to help you make the most informed decision about the products you purchase.
Is there anything else we can do?
We're listening for more ways to improve online ostomy supply. Post your ideas, comments and suggestions below or contact us directly!
For a Limited Time – Save 25% on Drive Medical Grab Bars
Bathroom safety is especially important for those with limited mobility due to surgery, injury, disabilities or old age. Grab bars give a little extra support for self-reliance and safety. These standard Drive Medical grab bars are wall mountable and come in either white or chrome.
For a limited time, we've dropped our regular price by 25% on all sizes of Drive Medical standard grab bars. These discounts are already marked on each product, so click here to see the discounted inventory!
Making Shopping Easier with Revamped Navigation
Every now and then, we re-evaluate how we're doing through surveys, analytics and shopping data to try to find ways to make it easier for our customers to search through our thousands of products. In 2011, we added thousands of new products to our inventory and to say the least, our categorization of our products was becoming a little hairy.
As such, we've recently overhauled our product categories to make navigation more straightforward and easy. We've simplified our homepage navigation from 26 to only 16 main categories. We focused on making it easier to find both our most popular products as well as better associate products based on how we like to shop:
- Allergy
- Bath Aids & Safety
- Bed Care & Accessories
- Braces & Supports
- Compression Stockings
- Daily Living Aids
- Diabetes Care
- Diagnostics
- First Aid, Wound & Patient Care
- Incontinence
- Impotence Aids
- Mobility Aids & Equipment
- Occupational & Physical Therapy
- Ostomy Supplies
- Skin Care
- Urological / Catheters
If you're a regular customer of ours and were used to finding your products through our old navigation, please have a look at our updated sitemap so we can best direct you to the products you're looking for.
If you have difficulties finding anything, you may alternately use our product search to locate it, using the item's Product Code or Name.
Regards,
STL Medical Supply
Introducing Brondell Bidet Toilet Seats and Deodorizing Toilet Seats
Brondell provides toilet seats with some unique features, like remote-controlled bidets and air deodorizers, while quickly installing to your existing toilet seat. We're pleased to announce that we can now provide you with some of these great products from Brondell.
Swash Bidet Toilet Seats - Bidet toilet seats can provide numerous benefits for those with certain medical conditions that limit mobility. Brondell's Swash are full-featured seats compatible with almost any toilet and easy to install. Using toilet paper can be both abrasive to sensitive parts, and require mobility that is difficult for some individuals. Swash warm water bidets provide a self-cleaning, adjustable spray controlled by remote for a cleaning experience that is both comfortable and hygienic.
Swash bidets are also economical for both the environment and the end user. Each year, over 5.7 billion dollars is spent on 3.2 million tons of toilet paper made from 54 million trees in the United States alone - not including the energy needed to distribute this paper from the factory to the end user. Bidets cut toilet paper use anywhere from 50 - 100%, utilizing the home's existing plumbing and power, and consuming only about 3 - 7 cents of electricity per day; far less energy than producing the numerous rolls of toilet paper used each year during bathroom visits.
BRON-S100-EW - Brondell Swash Ecoseat 100 (Elongated, White)
BRON-S900-XX - Brondell Swash 900 Toilet Seat
BRON-S1000-XX - Brondell Swash 1000 Toilet Seat
BRON-SWF100 - Swash Ecoseat Bidet Filter for Ecoseat
BRON-SWF44 - Swash Bidet Filter (All except Ecoseat)
Breeza Deodorizing Toilet Seats - The Breeza line of toilet seats from Brondell eliminate most odors during bathroom visits by filtering the air directly from the toilet bowl through a carbon filter in the rear of the seat, and optionally freshening it with an aromatic vent as it passes through. The Breeza Warm model also has a pleasantly warm seat.
BRON-BR30-XX - Breeza Automatic Open/Close Toilet Seat
BRON-BR50-XX - Breeza Warm Auto Open/Close Toilet Seat
BRON-BRV-01 - Brondell Citrus Eucalyptus Vents (3 Pack)
BRON-BRV-02 - Brondell Jasmine Lavender Vents (3 Pack)
BRON-BRV-03 - Brondell Rainforest Vents (3 Pack)
BRON-BRV-04 - Brondell Variety Pack (3 Vents)
BRON-BRF-99 - Brondell Breeza Filter (1 Filter)
