Improving Access for Ostomy Supplies in Surgical Oncology and General Surgery Outpatient Clinics
At Bellevue Hospital, Jyoti Narang, MBA, MS, PA-C, Ashley Irving, MS, PA-C; Moyosore Alade, MPH, PA-C; and interprofessional partner Ann Lee, MD, FACS, DABS, FSSO are addressing gaps in ostomy care.
The project will provide ostomy supplies through community partnerships while also creating educational opportunities for PAs, PA students, and the interprofessional surgical and care teams. This two-pronged approach strives to offer a model that will address barriers to ostomy care in a sustainable way.
“Every individual should have access to exceptional cancer care; and as an immigrant myself, I can attest to the importance of equitable health care,” said Narang. “Public health awareness of ostomy care is important but often an overlooked aspect of medicine … As a PA leader, this program presents with opportunities to assist, protect the health of the communities via education, promotion of healthy lifestyles, and awareness and research.”
The community and patient impact will be measured by reduced numbers of ER visits and hospital readmissions as well as by tracking patient satisfaction and numbers of social work, urgent care, and clinic visits for ostomy supplies.
The Health Foundation is glad to support this initiative that addresses an important need for a vulnerable population.