Providence Medical Center has recently opened the first phase of its advanced Wound Care Center, providing much needed expert wound care for area patients close to home. There were no other wound clinics in the surrounding communities, making it necessary for patients to commute outside the area for treatments several times a week. The Center, located in Suite 121 of the Doctors Building on the Providence campus, the facility includes four examination rooms where patients receive care Mondays through Fridays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Patient appointments can be scheduled at 913-596-7230.
“There has been a huge need in our community for this service,” says Karen Orr, Providence Chief Nursing Officer. “According to the American Diabetes Association, there are more than 30,000 diabetics in Wyandotte and Leavenworth Counties combined, with approximately 5100 of those having chronic wounds. Now these patients can receive their care without leaving their community,” Orr says. She also notes that there are plans to add two hyperbaric chambers for more intense treatments in early 2016.
Many wound care patients often have other serious health conditions that complicate their medical treatment. “Because these patients can require complex medical care, it is critical we work as a team with the patient’s primary care provider to help them heal,” Orr says.
Ashley Roberts, R.N., B.S.N., C.W.C.N., is the certified wound care nurse who staffs the center. Certification ensures that she is knowledgeable and qualified to provide this specialized care. Stephen Lowry, MD, general surgeon, provides medical supervision for patients.
Because this type of wound care takes place over weeks – even months- the care team often experiences a special bond with patients during the treatment process. “I’m excited about the opportunity to be part of our wound care team,” says Roberts. “It will be very gratifying to work with our patients to heal their wounds.”
Typical diagnoses seen in the new Center include:
- Venous/arterial/lower extremity ulcers
- Diabetic foot ulcers
- Pressure ulcers (bed sores)
- Non-healing surgical wounds
- Autoimmune wounds
- Minor burns
Treatments available include:
- Wound debridement
- Dressing changes
- Compression therapy
- Physician visits
- Wound vacs
- Advanced wound care products
- Bioengineered skin tissues
For more information about the Providence Advanced Wound Care Center, call 913-596-7230, or visit www.providencekc.com.