It is the declared objective of the International Ostomy Association that
all ostomates shall have the right to a satisfactory quality of life after
their surgery and that this charter shall be realized in all countries of
the world.

The Ostomate Shall:

Receive preoperative counseling to ensure that they are fully aware of the
benefits of the operation and the essential facts about living with a
stoma.

Have a well-constructed stoma placed at an appropriate site, and with full
and proper consideration to the comfort of the patient.

Receive experienced and professional medical support and stoma nursing
care in the preoperative and postoperative period both in hospital and in
their community.

Receive full and impartial information about all relevant supplies and
products available in their country.

Have the opportunity to choose from the available variety of ostomy
management products without prejudice or constraint.

Be given information about their National Ostomy Association and the
services and support which can be provided.

Receive support and information for the benefit of the family, personal
carers, and friends to increase their understanding of the conditions and
adjustments, which are necessary for achieving a satisfactory standard of
life with a stoma.

Receive assurance that personal information regarding ostomy surgery will
be treated with discretion and confidentiality to maintain privacy.

ISSUED BY THE IOA COORDINATION COMMITTEE JUNE 1993, REVISED JUNE 1997