Next week, we will be sending members a short survey asking how the Chronic Wound Consumables Scheme (CWCS) has worked for your patients and any challenges you've faced in delivering wound care.
Introduced in May, the $47.8 million scheme provides subsidised wound consumables for eligible patients, removing cost barriers to evidence-based wound care.
The federal AMA strongly advocated for this program, describing it as an "excellent step forward" to help Australians with chronic wounds access the treatment they need. Our report Solutions to the Chronic Wound Problem in Australia highlighted the health and economic cost of chronic wounds, with research suggesting chronic wounds affect approximately 450,000 Australians at any time.
The scheme covers wound consumables for people with diabetes and a chronic wound who are 65 and over, or 50 and over for First Nations people. Eligible health professionals can participate in the scheme after completing specified training.
