Having an ostomy comes with legal protections at work. Here's what you need to know about your rights and how to request accommodations.
Legal Note: This article provides general information, not legal advice. Laws can vary by location. For specific legal questions, consult an employment lawyer or contact the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in the USA or the Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC) in Canada.
Your Legal Protection
Having an ostomy is considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Accessible Canada Act (ACA). This means employers with 15 or more employees cannot discriminate against you because of your ostomy and must provide reasonable accommodations.
What Employers Cannot Do
- Ask specific details about your medical condition
- Require you to disclose your ostomy during interviews
- Refuse reasonable accommodations without good cause
- Discriminate against you for having an ostomy
- Share your medical information with other employees
- Retaliate against you for requesting accommodations
Common Reasonable Accommodations
You can request accommodations that help you do your job effectively:
- Flexible bathroom breaks without needing permission
- Desk location near a restroom
- Access to a private bathroom or space for supply changes
- Modified work schedule if needed during recovery
- Work from home options for difficult days
How to Request Accommodations
You can request accommodations verbally or in writing. Email creates a helpful paper trail. Here's a simple template:
"I have a medical condition that requires reasonable accommodations under the ADA. Specifically, I need flexible restroom breaks and a workspace near restroom facilities. I can provide medical documentation if needed. I'm happy to discuss how to implement these accommodations."
You don't have to share detailed medical information. Your doctor can write a letter confirming you need accommodations without revealing your diagnosis.
If Things Go Wrong
If your employer doesn't handle your request properly:
- Document everything (save emails, write down conversations)
- Follow your company's official procedures
- Contact the EEOC (USA) or CHRC (Canada) if discrimination continues
- Consider consulting an employment lawyer (many offer free consultations)
Know Your Worth
Having an ostomy doesn't make you less valuable as an employee. You bring the same skills, experience, and dedication as anyone else. The law recognizes this, which is why these protections exist.
Don't let fear of discrimination keep you from pursuing jobs you want or requesting accommodations you need. You have rights, and there are systems in place to protect them.
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