How to Get Online Ostomy Support During COVID-19

With social distancing measures still being enforced, it's natural to be concerned about finding the physical and mental support you need. We understand how stressful this can be.

The good news is there's no need to feel that you're on your own. There are online communities where you can connect with people who understand what it's like to live with a stoma. In each of the groups featured here, you can share tips, experiences, talk things over, and maybe let off a little steam.

Some of the groups featured here have thousands of members, others are much smaller, so it's worth exploring them and choosing those that meet your needs. One thing's for sure, you're about to meet many helpful people who are happy to listen.

Below we've listed some ANZ ostomy organizations and discussion forums you may find useful.

The Australian Council of Stoma Associations Inc. (ACSA) represents, at a national level, the interests of 21 regional Stoma Associations and approximately 46,000 people living with ostomies throughout Australia. The ACSA liaises with the Australian Government in matters related to accessing products funded through the SAS, coordinates ostomy-related support services, provides advocacy for people living with stomas, and publishes the national journal, Ostomy Australia.

Useful links:

• Find a Stoma Association Near You
• Access SAS Forms (Your STN/healthcare professional can help you complete the necessary forms to become a member)
• Find a Local Ostomy Support Group

How to order your ostomy products through the Stoma Appliance Scheme (SAS)
Once you become a member of a Stoma Association, you will be able to obtain your ostomy products at a subsidised rate. The Association will provide you with details on how to place your monthly order.

How to find a Stomal Therapy Nurse (STN) near your home
The Australian Association of Stomal Therapy Nurses (AASTN) is a professional organisation of STNs. One of their major objectives is to promote quality care for a wide range of people with specific needs. These needs may be related to ostomy construction, urinary or faecal incontinence, wounds with or without tube insertion, and breast surgery.

The AASTN website provides a “Find a Stomal Nurse” feature to help you locate a STN in your State/Area. It also provides a helpful Managing Your Stoma Supplies guide.

Other Useful Links

Australia

Cancer Council of Australia

Bowel Cancel Australia

New Zealand

Cancer Council of New Zealand

Bowel Cancer New Zealand

The Federation of NZ Ostomy Societies Inc. (FNZOS)

Further Support

If you're looking for more guidance on stoma care, you can find lots of useful information in our Ostomy Learning Center.

Whether you're a product user, a caregiver, or a healthcare professional, if you have any questions about Hollister products or services, we can help. Contact Us.