NY lawmakers back coverage for ostomy supplies

PHOTOGRAPHER: The Associated Press

The New York Legislature has voted to require that health insurers provide coverage for equipment and supplies for treating ostomies, intended to help ease the financial burden for people with the chronic condition.

Sponsors say current law already authorizes that coverage for other chronic conditions like diabetes.

An ostomy is a surgically created opening in the body for the discharge of waste.

Advocates say recurring expenses for supplies can be costly.

If signed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, the amendment to state insurance law would make coverage subject to annual deductibles and co-insurance as the Department of Financial Services deems appropriate.