Patients are mostly referred by their primary care physician, and the program operates by appointment. Upon referral to a Healogics Wound Care Center, patients undergo a thorough diagnostic examination to identify the type of wound you have and the underlying problems causing the wound.
The initial appointment consists of a full assessment to determine the etiology of the wound, the appropriate classification and size of the wound, the overall health status of the patient and the patient’s ability to comply with needed therapies.
Based on the evaluation, a customized treatment plan is developed to optimize the therapies best suited to address the patient’s needs. Wound size and depth are documented at the initial visit, and again at each subsequent visit. Some of the diagnostic modalities which may be used include:
- Laboratory evaluation
- Radiology (including MRI)
- Transcutaneous oxygen testing
- Vascular studies, electrocardiogram
- Ultrasound
After this determination, a program specifically tailored to your needs will be initiated based on the most effective treatment options. An interdisciplinary approach will be used to provide the maximum healing possible. Specialized wound care is usually administered on an outpatient basis.
Patients are free to drive themselves to the Wound Care Center for therapy, and you should plan two-and-a-half to three hours for each visit.
Preparing for your treatments
After an initial consultation and examination at the center, you will receive complete instructions regarding your treatment. Note: You should refrain from smoking or the use of any tobacco products during the entire course of therapy. Tobacco use will prolong or even prevent healing of a wound site due to its effect on the blood vessels in your body.
If you are sick or on medication
If you have a cold or cough, the flu, sore throat, chills, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, inform the staff at the Logansport Memorial Wound Care Center before your treatments begin. Also, alert the staff to any medications you are taking, or changes in medication during the course of your treatment.
If you are diabetic, please eat properly and continue to take your prescribed medication to control your blood sugar level. (Note: your blood sugar level will also be checked during each visit to the Wound Care Center.)