Organization of skin ulcer outpatient clinics in Italy: results from a survey of the Study Group on Ulcers of the Italian Society of Dermatology and Venereology.

BACKGROUND

Chronic skin ulcers represent a significant burden for healthcare systems due to their high prevalence, prolonged healing times and recurrence rates. Despite their impact, the organization and resources of outpatient ulcer clinics remain poorly characterized worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the organization of outpatient clinics for chronic skin ulcers in the Italian dermatological setting.

METHODS

A survey was distributed to all the members of the Study Group on Cutaneous Vascular Diseases and Skin Ulcers of the Italian Society of Dermatology and Venereology. The survey collected data on outpatient service organization, multidisciplinary involvement, nursing support, services provided, and patient volume.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine clinicians from 10 centers participated. Nine centers reported dedicated outpatient dermatologic ulcer clinics, with approximately two thirds (6/9) integrating multidisciplinary approaches. The services operate an average of three days per week and manage approximately 13-14 patients per day (mean:13.5). Universally available services at ulcer outpatient clinics include dermatological consultation, wound care (curettage, simple dressings, advanced dressings) and specialized nursing staff. Further widely performed diagnostic and therapeutic procedures include microbiological swabs, skin biopsy and vascular consultation. More advanced services are available only in selected centers.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights significant variations in the organization and resources of outpatient ulcer clinics among participating centers. Addressing these disparities through standardized protocols, equitable resource allocation, and integration of advanced tools is essential to improve patient care and outcomes.