Wound care organizations, programs, and certifications: an overview.

The number and variety of wound care organizations and certification programs have increased considerably in recent years. Many healthcare professionals interested in pursuing certification, employers who want to hire them, and the public at large are confused about the plethora of certification designations, program names, and requirements. Some of the largest wound care organizations in the US support or develop educational programs and meetings or support credentialing programs. Two of the four largest credentialing organizations are accredited. Information about the effect of credentialing on healthcare provider knowledge and clinical skills is not available and standards are needed to help healthcare providers and employers decide which program best serves their needs. Most importantly, research to ascertain the effects of educational programs and credentialing on patient outcomes must be conducted to help improve the quality of care and substantiate the goals of the credentialing programs.