FAQ - The Comprehensive Wound and Lymphedema Center at GBMC
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to visit the Wound Center?
Any break in the skin that has not improved over the course of 2-3 weeks would benefit from a visit to the GBMC Wound Center. The wound may not be healing because of swelling, infection, lack of blood flow, or pressure on the wound. Our multispecialty group of physicians and experienced nurses use advanced dressings to heal wounds as quickly as possible. We work with your primary care or referring physicians to heal the wound and keep it healed.
Why should I come to the Wound Center?
The GBMC Wound Center offers advanced multispecialty wound care. Our nurses have decades of experience. Your wound will heal much faster with specialized treatment so you can return to your life more quickly.
Who will be taking care of me at the GBMC Wound Center?
Your healthcare team consists of highly trained specialists in the fields of vascular surgery, plastic surgery, general surgery, podiatry, and internal medicine, allowing for a more comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach. Each physician has been specially-trained in wound management. Every patient is also given a case manager, who serves as his or her primary resource. Our case managers work closely with our physicians to create detailed care plans for each patient, which include home care and progress checks.
What kind of treatment will I receive?
We will develop a treatment program based on your individual needs. This program will include regular visits to the Wound Center to provide treatment, evaluate progress and make any changes needed to improve the healing process. You (or your caregiver) will be provided education and detailed instructions on home care, dressing changes and protecting the wound from further injury.
How long will my wound take to heal?
By keeping the wound clean with frequent removal of unhealthy tissue, using advance biologic dressings, decreasing pressure over affected area, utilizing compression wraps and evaluating the possibility of using hyperbaric oxygen therapy we can reduce healing times by months. Without frequent wound care these wounds tend to stall in their healing. They may not get worse but they will not likely improve either.
Which are the most difficult wounds to heal?
Diabetic foot ulcers put patients at major risk for limb loss. Venous stasis ulcers can recur frequently. Pressure sores are extremely challenging for patients with limited mobility. Arterial ulcers need the expertise of a vascular surgeon. These wounds are difficult to control and heal in any physicians practice.
Our vascular surgeons work to improve blood flow and control swelling. Plastic surgery is available to reconstruct complex wounds. Podiatry has multiple options for foot pressure offloading. We work together in one center to heal difficult wounds.
Does my insurance cover treatment?
Most health plans, including Medicare, cover Wound Center treatment. Your coverage depends on your specific plan. If you have a Managed Care Plan (MCO) you will most likely need a referral from your primary care physician. Be sure to bring your insurance cards with you when you visit the Wound Center and let us know of any changes during your treatment.