LECZENIE RAN 2024; 21 (3)

Wound treatment remains a significant challenge in modern medicine. Initiatives undertaken by the medical community, including the Wound Healing Society’s activities and specialist publications, attempt to optimise standards of care for patients with wounds. The current epidemiological situation in this patient group requires urgent systemic intervention.

Epidemiological studies indicate that approximately one million chronic wounds occur among Poland’s adult population. The magnitude of this phenomenon has significant medical and socio-economic implications, leading to a deterioration in patients’ quality of life, increased morbidity, and a potential reduction in life expectancy. The problem is highly underestimated due to both psychosocial aspects and systemic deficits in the organisation of care and medical education.

In response to the problems identified, the Covenant for Professional Wound Care programme was initiated. It integrates an interdisciplinary team of professionals, including nursing staff, doctors from various specialities, pharmacists, and experts in healthcare organisations [1]. The programme is based on scientific evidence and clinical experience [2, 3].

Epidemiological analysis has shown a significant increase in the incidence of difficult-to-heal wounds compared to previous estimates (500,000 cases). There is a high incidence of cases requiring urgent intervention, which often results in an unfavourable prognosis, including the need for limb amputation in cases of chronic shin wounds complicated by necrosis or sepsis. Amputation rates in Poland remain among the highest in Europe.

Proposed system solutions include:

• implementation of early diagnosis standards,
• development of prevention,
• optimising the patient’s therapeutic pathway,
• increasing the competence of nursing staff,
• modification of inpatient and outpatient procedures,
• standardisation of therapeutic protocols.

The postulated model of care assumes a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach, regardless of the place of the patient’s first contact with the health care system. The proposed systemic solutions urgently need to be implemented to prevent further increases in morbidity and improve treatment efficiency rates.

In summary, systemic solutions for the diagnosis and treatment of wounds based on international standards and adapted to the local conditions of the health care system are necessary. Implementing the proposed changes may contribute to optimising treatment outcomes and improving patients’ quality of life.