Due to advancements in healthcare, the average lifespan of the population has increased, leading our country into an aging society. However, with the aging population and the promotion of long-term care, the hours required for the care of chronic or complex wounds have significantly increased. Additionally, due to a Westernized diet, the number of patients with colostomies after colorectal cancer surgery has been rising steadily. If wounds or stomas do not receive proper care, patients may face repeated hospitalizations to address various complications, becoming frequent visitors to hospitals. This situation imposes a heavy financial burden on families and results in a relative depletion of medical resources. Furthermore, patients and their families often hesitate to leave the hospital and opt for home care due to concerns about the challenges involved in wound or stoma care, leading to acute bed congestion.
In summary, the presence of wounds and stomas has a significant impact on the lives of patients, their families, and societal resources. However, the care required for these types of wounds and stomas often necessitates a specialized integrated care team that provides interdisciplinary collaboration, including interventions from internal and surgical departments, nutritional assessments, and assistance with rehabilitation, in order to deliver comprehensive wound and stoma integrated care. Nevertheless, in the past, disparities in medical environments and knowledge have meant that such patients often have to shuttle between multiple specialized clinics or might not even find an appropriate primary attending physician.
To address the impediments caused by chronic wounds or stomas, Taichung Veterans General Hospital established a Wound and Ostomy Care Team in 2020, comprising multiple specialized experts to assist patients facing life hindrances due to chronic wounds or stomas. Through the care and health education provided by wound and ostomy nurses, as well as regular case discussions, this initiative expedites communication and collaboration between departments, significantly benefiting the care of these patients.
Integrated healthcare services are crucial for future healthcare provision and offer opportunities for the development of distinctive medical services. To further enhance medical care for chronic wounds and stomas, We have established the "Wound and Ostomy Integrated Care Center." This center aims to provide comprehensive guidance and information on wound and stoma care, alleviating patients' and families' concerns about such care, reducing the occurrence of related complications, and effectively shortening hospital stays. Ultimately, this initiative aims to ensure patients' peace of mind, healthcare providers' confidence, and a reduction in medical resource consumption.
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2023/11/28 9:06:05
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