Board Certification

A healthcare professional with experience in wound management should seek board certification because it…

  • Recognizes those who have met the eligibility requirements for board certification.
  • Identifies a standard of knowledge essential for developing a comprehensive wound management program.
  • Advances cooperation and resource exchange among the various disciplines and organizations involved in the treatment of patients with chronic wounds.
  • Encourages continued professional growth and development of individuals and the field of wound management.
  • Establishes a code of ethics, responsibility and high professional standards by all certified individuals.

AAWM Board Certification by Examination

The AAWM shall grant Associate status to those individuals who successfully pass the National Board Certification Examination for Wound Management Professionals or Associates. Such Associates shall be referred to as “Certified Wound Care Associate® of the AAWM,” and shall be entitled to use the designation CWCA® after their name.

The AAWM shall grant Diplomate status to those individuals who successfully pass the National Board Certification Examination for Wound Management Professionals. Such Diplomates shall be referred to as “Certified Wound Specialists® of the AAWM” and shall be entitled to use the designation CWS® after their name.

The AAWM shall grant Diplomate status to those individuals who successfully pass the National Board Certification Examination for Certified Wound Specialist Physicians. Such Physicians shall be referred to as “Certified Wound Specialists Physicians® of the AAWM” and shall be entitled to use the designation CWSP® after their name.

Eligibility for Board Certification

Any healthcare professional with at least three years of experience in wound care is eligible to take one of our examinations.

  • If you have at least a high school diploma or equivalent, you are eligible to apply for the CWCA exam.
  • If you have at least a Bachelor’s degree, and you have a valid, clinical license, you are eligible to apply for the CWS exam.
  • MDs, DOs, and DPMs are eligible to apply for the CWSP exam.

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