Tips for Traveling with an Ostomy

No one living with an ostomy should have to fear flying because of concerns that they might be humiliated at an airport security checkpoint.  Bladder cancer survivors deserve to be treated with dignity and respect by TSA agents.  If you are concerned about traveling through security with an ostomy bag, these tips might help make your travels easier:

1. Pre-cut barriers at home.
2. Pack ostomy supplies in both carry-on and checked luggage.
3. Take extra supplies.
4. Carry a statement from your healthcare provider stating your need for ostomy supplies to show security.
5. If traveling to a foreign country, bring your ostomy information written in the appropriate language.
6. You should be treated with respect, dignity, & courtesy while going through security. You may request personal screening in a private area.

Travel tips are from the presentation given by Laura Bendetto-Rugen, RN, BSN, CWOCN at BCAN’s NYC Patient Forum. You may view her complete presentation here: http://www.bcan.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/8.Benedetto-Rugen.pdf

The TSA has also created “Notification Cards” that can be printed out and presented to TSA agents to notify them that you have a particular medical condition.   Click here to download the printable cards.

BCAN has joined with 23 other organizations to ask the TSA to improve their training procedures so that people with medical issues can feel more comfortable going through security.  Read the letter BCAN sent to the TSA.