World Council of Enterostomal Therapists (WCET)

The WCET was formally founded on May 18, 1978 when 30 Enterostomal Therapists, representing 15 countries and 20 industry representatives attended the first two-day congress held in Milan, Italy. This meeting was undertaken in conjunction with the International Ostomy Association (IOA). Norma N. Gill from the USA was the first WCET President.

Mission:
The WCET® Mission is to lead the global advancement of specialized professional nursing care for people with ostomy, wound or continence needs.

Vision:
The vision of the World Council of Enterostomal Therapists is:
• To ensure specialised nursing care is available worldwide for all people with a need for ostomy, wound or continence care
• To provide nurses worldwide with access to ostomy, wound and continence specialty education
• Recognition as the global organisation for ostomy, wound and continence care providers
• Identification as the global leader in the specialty of ostomy, wound and continence care
Values:
The World Council of Enterostomal Therapists® aspires to the core values of: • Respect - for the dignity and individual diversity of all persons • Integrity - adherence to a recognized code of ethics • Communications - fostering collaboration between members and other interested parties • Holistic care - encompassing care for body, mind and spirit • Scientific approach - advancement of research and evidence-based specialized education and care