There’s no longer any reason to live with a non-healing wound. With our caring staff and specialized treatment plans developed just for you, we have what you need to get back on your feet again. Most treatments are covered by Medicare/Medicaid, HMO’s, and other private insurance plans. Caring for people whose wounds have resisted traditional treatment, otherwise known as chronic wounds, is the focus.

Chronic, non-healing wounds, those that haven’t shown signs of improvement in several weeks or are not responding to typical treatments, need extra help to heal. Difficult wounds of this type are often caused by injury, disease or poor blood supply. Ask your doctor about visiting our Wound Care Center if:

• You have a wound that hasn’t healed in 30 days (this is commonly experienced by people with diabetes).
• You have a sore with increasing pain, redness or swelling, foul odor, or a change in color.
• You have a surgical wound that has become infected.

Forrest City Medical Center provides specialized treatment for these types of wounds. The Wound Care Center features a team of specially trained physicians, physician assistants, nurses, and technologists who provide wound care services.

Generally, the physician currently treating you will refer you to our Wound Care Center for specialized care. You can also make an appointment directly. When you call for your first appointment, we will ask you a few questions about your wound and your health in general. What to bring to your first visit:

• A list your current medications as well as any allergies you’re aware of.
• Medical records including x-ray films if you have them.
• Insurance forms or cards.

Conditions we treat include:

• Diabetic ulcers
• Neuropathic ulcers
• Pressure ulcers
• Ischemic ulcers
• Venous insufficiency
• Traumatic wounds
• Surgical wounds
• Vasculitis
• Burns
• Peristomal skin irritations
• Other chronic, non-healing wounds

What to expect

When you arrive at our center, you’ll meet with a multi-specialty team of physicians, nurses and others. Before treatment, the team will thoroughly examine your wound and review your health and medical history. Tests may be conducted to tell your treatment team more about your blood flow and tissue oxygenation as well as to determine if there’s any infection present. Based on your test results and medical history, your team will determine your plan of care.

Treatment plans

Together with your physician, we will develop a treatment program based on your special needs. Your personalized plan will consist of treatments that focus on the cause of your wound, other conditions that affect your wound healing, and the topical management of your wound. Your plan may involve regular visits to the center, and you will also be instructed on home-care, such as wound dressings and ways to protect yourself from further damage. At times our treatment plans also include hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

We are in constant communication with your doctor throughout your care. Your team will continue to consult your regular doctor and keep him or her abreast of your progress. Once your wound is healed, you’ll return to your doctor for follow-up care after your discharge from the Wound Care Center.

Finally, your participation is vital. It’s important that you follow all directions, watch your progress closely and keep your appointments. Staff is available to answer any questions you may have.