NICE has recently consulted on its draft guidance on the use of one-piece closed colostomy bags within the NHS. The guidance aims to support people with a colostomy to accessing the most appropriate and effective products.
Crohn’s & Colitis UK engaged with NICE during the consultation process. We welcome the recognition that access to a full range of products is essential for patient choice and well-being.
What is in the guidance?
The draft guidance states that all one-piece closed colostomy bags available for NHS prescription should remain accessible through stoma care services. This makes sure that individuals can select the most suitable product based on their clinical needs and personal experience.
NICE highlights the importance of shared decision making between healthcare professionals and patients when selecting a colostomy bag. They acknowledge that different products suit different individuals, and the choice should reflect comfort, effectiveness in preventing leaks and skin complications, and overall quality of life for the patient.
The draft guidance also suggests that where multiple suitable products are available, the least expensive clinically appropriate option should be tried first. However, NICE has recognised that cost alone should not be the determining factor if a specific bag better meets a person’s needs.
The need for more research
NICE also highlighted gaps in research into colostomy bags, particularly in understanding why price variations exist and whether price correlates with clinical benefits. The guidance calls for further research on:
- How well different bags prevent leaks and seepage
- The impact on skin health
- The psychological and social effects of using different bags
- How colostomy bags influence overall quality of life
What this means for people living with a stoma
If you have a colostomy, this guidance is there to ensure that a range of one-piece closed bags will be available to you, with cost not being a deciding factor.
At Crohn’s & Colitis UK, we strongly support the emphasis on patient choice and personalised care. During our discussions with NICE, we highlighted the importance of making sure people living with a stoma feel in control of their care and have the widest range of effective options. We highlighted that people should not feel pressured to stick to the cheapest option if it is not working for them.
Next Steps
The consultation process is now closed and the expected publication date is the 24th June 2025. For further details on the guidance, visit the NICE website here.
