SJH to participates in Wound Care Awareness Week

The HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital (Highland) Wound Care Center, a member of the Healogics network, is helping raise awareness of chronic wounds by hosting an open house event on Thursday, June 4, from 1 to 3 p.m. in recognition of Wound Care Awareness Week (June 1-5).

One of nearly 800 Healogics managed centers, the St. Joseph’s Hospital Wound Care Center offers advanced therapies to patients suffering from chronic wounds.

It is estimated that chronic wounds affect 6.7 million people in the U.S. and the incidence is rising, fueled by an aging population and increasing rates of diseases and conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and the late effects of radiation therapy. Untreated, chronic wounds can lead to diminished quality of life and possibly amputation of the affected limb.

“Many patients live with chronic wounds for months or even years. Because of the lack of awareness of advanced wound care, physicians do not always know when it is appropriate to refer these patients to a Wound Care Center for treatment,” said Dr. D. Scott Covington, M.D., FACS, chief medical director for Healogics Inc.

Headquartered in Jacksonville, Fla., Healogics is the nation’s largest provider of advanced wound care services.

“Advanced wound care, as part of a comprehensive care plan can help heal patients faster than traditional methods. It is our mission to raise awareness of the chronic wound problem as well as the benefits of advanced wound care in the communities we serve,” Covington said.

People with wounds that have not improved with traditional methods of treatment may benefit from a visit to the St. Joseph’s Hospital Wound Care Center. To learn more about Wound Care Awareness Week, visit woundcareawareness.com.

To schedule an appointment, call (618) 651-2502.

This story was originally published May 27, 2015 at 11:53 AM with the headline "SJH to participates in Wound Care Awareness Week."