American Academy of Wound Management Certification Information

INTRODUCTION

The American Academy of Wound Management is a voluntary, not-for-profit organization established for the purpose of credentialing multi-disciplinary practitioners in the field of wound management. The organazation was founded by individuals with years of experience in wound care who are dedicated to helping patients who suffer from acute and chronic wounds of various etiology. The board of advisors is an interdisciplinary panel of experts in the field of wound care consisting of practitioners, academicians and researchers. The American Academy of Wound Management is a full voting member of the National Organization for Competency Assurance (NOCA).

MISSION

The American Academy of Wound Management is dedicated to the multidisciplinary team approach in promoting the science of prevention, care, and treatment of acute and chronic wounds. The primary function is to establish and monitor a national certification process, recognize competency, promote education and research, and elevate the standard of care across the continuum of wound management.

WHY CERTIFICATION?

• Recognizes competency of 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 organazations 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, responsability and high professional standards by all certified individuals.
  

LEVELS OF CERTIFICATION

The American Academy of Wound Management offers three levels of certification. A membership category also exists for those who are professionally involved in wound care but do not meet the eligibility requirements or do not pass the examination for certification.

Diplomate status may be awarded to physicians, nurses, physical therapists and other health care providers who have been granted a doctorate degree from an accredited university and who have two years of clinical or research experience in wound care.

Fellow status may be granted to those individuals who are trained at the masters level in related health care disciplines with two years of approved clinical or research experience in wound care.

Clinical Associates status is available to registered nurses, certified physician assistants, individuals with a baccalaureate degree, or other health care providers with extensive training and background in wound care. Additionally, individuals must have five years of documented clinical or research experience in the field of wound care.