As many of our readers are aware, even today in 2017, many of the challenges we have faced over many decades continue to exist. The purpose of this editorial is to remind us of this on‐going need and to challenge those of us who participate in this area, whether it is clinically, academically or on a business basis to step up the pace and reinvigorate our efforts to change our environment for the better.
Recognition as a specialty – After 50 years of ‘modern’ wound care based on George Winters' work, we have not truly reached specialisation status. Indeed in many countries we have a long way to go. Governments have funded innovation hubs in both the UK and Australia but the rest of the world has not. We need more of this type of innovation hubs to focus on both the research efforts and the clinical specialisation development to move the agenda forward.
Education and training – A few formal education courses exist in some countries but in general nursing and medical education on wounds and their complications and treatment get scant coverage at best. How can we change this? What is required?
Reimbursement and availability of treatments – In some countries, reimbursement exists but it is not universal. As a result, for patients with wounds there is often significant out of pocket expense required for adequate treatment. Without the ability to pay, the only option is poor or ineffective treatment. How can we break this cycle? How can we get the message across to governments regarding adequate funding and the cost benefits of better treatment?
Public awareness – The awareness of wounds and how they can be prevented or treated remains low in many countries around the world. Even with the vast resources of the Internet and its wealth of information. How can we increase awareness? What does the public need to know and how can we help? Governments educate about smoking, obesity, diabetes and so on but few, if any, include wounds.
Championing the cause – Key opinion leaders can change the dynamic of the development of this clinical arena. But real change requires many champions, who lead by example and have the drive to see change happen. Such champions are required in all levels of care, including the family. Patients require support and information to better care for their wounds. Who do they look to for help? Where do they go for help? They need visible champions. Many exist today but we need more to take up the cause and help drive the mission to its ultimate conclusion of specialisation.
If you have any ideas, comments or thoughts on the above please feel free to write a letter to us. Participate in this important case. Please become a champion of the future and help those who struggle to help themselves.