Stoma Care

The Stomatherapy Service covers some 930 square miles stretching from Wareham in the east to Lyme Regis in the west, Gillingham to the north and Portland to the south.

In addition to home visits, we also see patients throughout their stay in hospital and therefore act as a resource to the staff of all hospitals in West Dorset.

To ensure adequate time is given to each individual, we work on an appointment basis only. We therefore provide a confidential service both in the community or in the hospital setting.

Philosophy of the Stoma Care Department

All patients undergoing surgery resulting in the formation of a colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy, and their carers or nurses are entitled to a specialist service provided by a qualified Stoma Care Nurse. This service will be provided before and after your operation; our ultimate aim being to assist you to resume your normal lifestyle.

What kind of help do we provide?

• Pre–admission visits and counselling for newly diagnosed patients;
• Full and impartial information regarding ostomy supplies available through the NHS. To enable all patients (newly created stomas and existing patients with stomas in the community) freedom of choice, an ostomy open day is organised every two years;
• Continuity of care following discharge from hospital, offering advice on issues such as rehabilitation, personal hygiene and diet;
• Teach practical skills to patients and carers, giving psychological and emotional support.

Contact information

Stoma Care Department
Dorset County Hospital
Williams Avenue
Dorchester
DT1 2JY

Telephone: 01305 255152 (voicemail available seven days)