Creating a framework for shared wound care among patients and clinicians

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Patient Care
• Wound Management

Background:

• The National Health Service (NHS) in England anticipates a significant workforce shortage by 2036, necessitating innovative solutions in healthcare delivery.
• International healthcare systems face similar challenges, highlighting the need for sustainable and effective patient care models.
• Current wound care practices require evolution to ensure safety, efficacy, and sustainability in the face of these workforce pressures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of shared wound care models to address healthcare workforce shortages and enhance patient outcomes.
• To outline foundational strategies for integrating shared wound care into routine clinical practice.
• To identify practical tools and patient-centered approaches for empowering individuals in managing their own wound care.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized evidence from key published studies on shared care models.
• Incorporated insights from a Key Opinion Leader-led 'Hackathon' focused on practical implementation.
• Gathered patient perspectives through a dedicated focus group to understand needs and preferences.

Main Results:

• Shared wound care, when supported by appropriate technology, could potentially free up 3.5 billion nursing hours globally by 2030.
• Practical tools developed include clinician checklists, simplified wound care diaries, visual explainers, and step-by-step guides.
• Patient feedback emphasized a desire for empowerment, with confidence in self-management when provided with adequate support and materials like wound diaries.

Conclusions:

• Shared wound care presents a viable strategy to enhance the sustainability and effectiveness of wound management services.
• Empowering patients and carers through shared responsibility can lead to improved quality of life and better health outcomes.
• Systematic implementation of shared wound care, supported by practical tools and patient engagement, is crucial for its routine adoption in clinical practice.