Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, with reference to the Answer of 4 March 2026 to Question 116635 on Stoma Appliances, when NHS England's review of stoma and continence products and stoma services is expected to conclude; and whether the findings of that review will be published.

The Government is committed to supporting people living with a stoma to access high quality, safe, and personalised care. Living with a stoma can have a profound impact on an individual’s health, wellbeing, and quality of life, and we recognise the importance of ensuring that people receive the products, clinical support, and advice that best meet their needs.

Through the National Health Service, stoma appliances continue to be available on prescription, supported by specialist clinicians who play a vital role in helping people to manage their condition and live independently. The Department does not hold data on variation between integrated care systems in access to specialist stoma review and structured follow-up.

However, the Department is aware that patient experience varies. Patient choice can be impacted by the prescribing and dispensing models in place, and this has an impact on patient experience and quality of life.

Through NHS England, the Department is currently reviewing the provision of stoma and continence products and services. The aim is to improve patient outcomes, support informed choice, and ensure people are receiving the most appropriate products and care throughout their lives.

The review has so far focussed on understanding the current arrangements from a system, supplier, and patient perspective. The review is in progress, and the next step is to engage stakeholders on what could or should change and therefore potential solutions. It is therefore too early to determine the recommendations resulting from the review.

A completion date has not yet been set, however the Department will comply with any requirements to publish the outcome of any consultation undertaken as part of the review.