Patient-Friendly Guide: Talking to Your Wound Care Provider
Why This Matters
Whether you are visiting us in the clinic, through telehealth, or in the comfort of your home with our concierge services, your appointment is an opportunity to share information, ask questions, and take part in your healing plan. Being prepared helps you get the most out of your visit.
✅ What to Have Ready for Your Appointment
- List of Medications – Prescriptions, over-the-counter, vitamins, and supplements.
- Medical History – Chronic illnesses, surgeries, allergies, or recent hospital visits.
- Wound Information – When did it start? How has it changed? What treatments have you tried?
- Photos – Take clear, well-lit photos of your wound before your telehealth or concierge visit. This helps your provider track changes over time.
- Supplies (for telehealth/concierge visits) – Have your dressings, cleanser, or other supplies nearby so your provider can walk you through proper use.
- Insurance/ID – For registration and coverage.
❓ Questions You Can Ask Your Provider
1. About Your Wound
- What type of wound do I have?
- What caused it, and what may slow healing?
- Is this wound common in people with my health condition?
2. About Treatment
- What dressing will be used, and how often should I change it?
- Are there special cleansers or ointments I should use?
- For telehealth: Can you demonstrate how to apply my dressing on camera?
- For concierge: Will you bring supplies to my home or recommend specific products?
3. About Recovery
- How long will it take to heal?
- What warning signs should I watch for (infection, worsening pain, odor, or drainage)?
- How will follow-up appointments work—telehealth, in-clinic, or at home?
4. About Self-Care
- How should I clean and care for my wound at home?
- Can I shower or bathe safely?
- What can I do to prevent new wounds?
📝 Tips for a Good Visit
- For telehealth:
- Make sure your device has a good camera and strong internet connection.
- Choose a quiet, well-lit area so your provider can clearly see your wound.
- For concierge:
- Prepare a clean space at home where your provider can assess and treat your wound comfortably.
- For all visits:
- Write down your questions ahead of time.
- Take notes or request written instructions.
- Bring a trusted friend or family member if you’d like extra support.
🌐 Helpful Patient Resources
- Wound Healing Society (WHS): www.woundheal.org
- Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN): www.wocn.org
- MedlinePlus – Wound Care: medlineplus.gov/woundcare
🩺 Remember:
Your provider is your partner in healing. Whether you meet in the clinic, online, or at home, sharing information and asking questions will help create the best wound care plan for you.