Through innovative research partnerships, robust knowledge translation, and policy guidance, Wounds Canada is building a healthier Canada where high-quality, equitable wound care is accessible to all.
Founded in 1995, Wounds Canada’s mission is to advance skin health and excellence in wound care. Access to high-quality healthcare remains a significant challenge across Canada, especially for those in remote and vulnerable communities. Wounds Canada, a non-profit organisation, is dedicated to addressing this challenge.
Through innovative research partnerships, robust knowledge translation, and policy guidance, Wounds Canada is building a healthier Canada where high-quality, equitable wound care is accessible to all. By collaborating with universities, national organisations and health institutions, we deliver impactful, evidence-based solutions that align with our mission.
Policy-driven research to address diabetic foot complications
Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) represent a serious health crisis in Canada, leading to increased risks of disability, diminished quality of life, and even premature death. Recognising the critical need for comprehensive health policies on DFU prevention and treatment, Wounds Canada recently partnered with Memorial University and the Limb Preservation Alliance to conduct a global Q-methodology study that identifies priority areas for DFU prevention, culminating in the Canadian DFU Policy Roundtable: Moving Canadian Recommendations to Action at the Wounds Canada National Conference on 16 October 2024.
Guided by Dr Zulfiqarali Abbas of D-Foot International and Dr Kathleen Stevens from Memorial University, the roundtable provided an interactive way for clinicians, policymakers and experts to discuss strategies to reduce unnecessary amputations. These discussions yielded valuable insights to help policymakers create effective, data-driven DFU policies, ensuring that Canadians with diabetes receive timely, effective care.
Promoting equity in diabetic foot care through community-centred research
Addressing disparities in diabetes-related care is integral to Wounds Canada’s mission. In partnership with the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), we presented CIHI’s report on equity in diabetic foot care at the National Conference 2024. The CIHI report uncovers systemic inequities in access to preventive DFU care, particularly for men, low-income individuals, and those in rural or remote areas.
To foster community engagement directly, Wounds Canada hosted a think tank during the conference, allowing participants to explore barriers to equitable DFU care and identify solutions.
Amplifying patient voices with ‘Our Voices, Our Stories’
A core part of Wounds Canada’s mission is a commitment to patient-centred care, exemplified by the Our Voices, Our Stories initiative. Launched in 2022 in collaboration with Lakehead University and led by Dr Ide Costa, this project collects and shares real stories from patients navigating wound care in Canada. These experiences are shared through knowledge mobilisation events, providing a vital platform for patients to express their challenges and needs.
The insights gained from these narratives highlight issues in accessibility, cultural sensitivity, and continuity of care. In response, Wounds Canada will be hosting a series of webinars to engage the wound care community on developing a Patients’ Bill of Rights. This initiative is funded by SSHRC Connection grant and strengthens Wounds Canada’s mission to create a more inclusive, responsive healthcare system.
Strengthening capacity with the Wound Care Champion Program
Bridging the gap between research-based practices and patient care is essential. Wounds Canada, in partnership with the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) and funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health, launched the Wound Care Champion Program to train clinicians in best practices for wound care. This programme equips clinicians with the advanced skills in skin health and wound management they need, empowering them to become advocates and leaders within their communities.
By creating a network of skilled practitioners, the Wound Care Champion Program embeds best-practice wound care across local healthcare systems, fostering a knowledgeable workforce. These efforts support Wounds Canada’s mission to build a healthier Canada by providing clinicians with the skills necessary to deliver high-quality, evidence-based wound care nationwide.
Translating knowledge through best practice recommendations
Wounds Canada’s Best Practice Recommendations for Skin Health and Wound Management is an essential resource for clinicians, policymakers, and patients across Canada. Developed by experts, and based on the latest research, these recommendations guide practitioners and healthcare decision-makers through the Wound Prevention and Management Cycle – a standardised clinical approach to managing skin integrity and promoting wound healing.
Regularly updated to incorporate new evidence, this resource provides healthcare providers with the knowledge needed to make informed care decisions, directly contributing to better patient outcomes.
Empowering Canadians and transforming wound care
A significant part of Wounds Canada’s mission is to empower all Canadians with the knowledge and resources they need to manage skin health and wound care, whether in clinical settings or at home. By providing accessible resources and training, Wounds Canada aims to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by wounds.
Shaping a healthier future for Canada
Wounds Canada’s mission extends beyond patient support; it actively shapes the future of Canadian healthcare through strategic partnerships with academic institutions, health organisations and government agencies. Together, we are building a framework that prioritises equitable, high-quality wound management for all Canadians, regardless of their location or background.
Through partnerships that strengthen research, improve knowledge translation, and advocate for patients, Wounds Canada is fulfilling its mission to create a healthier Canada. These initiatives not only address today’s health needs but also lay the foundation for a sustainable, inclusive healthcare system for future generations. Researchers, submit your abstracts now for our upcoming conference in 2025 as we celebrate our 30th anniversary.
About Wounds Canada
Founded in 1995, Wounds Canada is dedicated to advancing skin health and excellence in wound care across Canada. As a non-profit organisation, Wounds Canada collaborates closely with patients, caregivers, healthcare providers, and policymakers to promote evidence-based practices, advocate for equitable care, and support Canadians living with or at risk of wounds.
Please note, this article will also appear in the 20th edition of our quarterly publication.
