The human cost of wounds pain distress embarrassment loss of body image or function anxiety prolonged hospital stays morbidity (eg. amputation) or even death Wounds can have a significant impact on quality of life for patients and their families Good wound care is an issue of patient safety

The economic cost of wounds Not just about the price of wound care products Includes: -Nurse time -Dressings, other materials & equipment -Healthcare professional time -Hospital beds -Operating theatre time -Waste disposal

The economic cost of wounds The true cost of wound care is poorly understood because Wound care is not easily visible It cuts across most surgical and medical departments Buying cheaper products may appear to be a good way to reduce costs Delayed healing and wound complications impose a substantial demand on healthcare resources

The determinants of cost The choice of dressing is vitally important, since it may have a major impact on all other cost elements Dressing choice can impact: - Healing time - Frequency of intervention - Resources consumed - Patient experience *Drew P, Posnett J, Rusling L, on behalf of the Wound Care Audit Team. The cost of wound care for a local population in England. Int Wound J 2007;4: *

Reducing the costs of wounds How to reduce the cost of wounds Choose the right dressings Use dressings appropriately, reduce waste & minimise the need for dressing changes Improve patient concordance & experience Heal wounds as quickly as possible Avoid complications Use appropriate care setting Gain economic efficiency