EUROPEAN  TISSUE  REPAIR  SOCIETY

EUROPEAN WOUND MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION – THE FIRST TEN YEARS

The European Wound Management Association (EWMA) was established in 1991, at a conference in Cardiff, to address clinical and scientific issues associated with wound healing represented by medical, nursing, scientific and pharmaceutical interests. One of the aims of this meeting was to draw on expertise from professionals throughout Europe. With this aim in view the Council was formed with members from the UK and mainland Europe, so that EWMA would be able to have direct links with the wound healing societies in these countries.

The original objectives of EWMA were:

1. To promote advancement of education and research into naive epidemiology, pathology, diagnosis, prevention and management of wounds of all aetiologies.
2. a) To hold conferences on aspects of wound management throughout Europe.
   b) To provide bursaries and grants to EWMA members.
   c) To hold multicentre, multidisciplinary training courses on topical aspects of wound healing.

While it has been acknowledged that there have been many improvements in wound care across Europe, EWMA in re-visiting the original objectives of the Association are aware of the considerable work that is required to standardise quality practice throughout Europe. We are looking at a number of innovative programmes to assist countries who are seeking to develop their practice. In addition, EWMA will seek to act as a resource, providing information and expertise where required throughout Europe.

The challenge for EWMA and other societies in this field over the next decade is to raise the profile and importance of wound care as a major health h care problem that deserves appropriate recognition and financial investment.

Our next international conference will be held in Dublin on 17–19 May 2001. Should you wish for more information about this meeting or the society please contact us via our conference secretariat’s email:

ewma@congress-consult.com

Photo below: Initial meeting of representatives from the European Wound Management Association and colleagues from Slovenia, to establish a co-operative wound healing programme, 10 November 2000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.