Study: Expanding Wound Care for Drug Users Saves Lives

New Research Highlights Urgent Need

A new study published in the Harm Reduction Journal identifies vital actions to extend low-barrier wound care for individuals grappling with drug use. This research comes at a critical juncture, particularly with the rise of xylazine, a tranquilizer increasingly present in the street opioid supply, causing a sharp uptick in serious wounds within this population.

The study, conducted in Philadelphia and nearby areas from April to September 2024, involved researchers interviewing wound care providers and specialists. They sought to understand the challenges and the best methods for delivering care, often critical for those who use drugs and frequently face discrimination in traditional healthcare settings.

“People who use drugs deserve high-quality, compassionate care without judgment. This study provides a roadmap for health systems and communities to better meet the urgent wound care needs of this vulnerable population by embracing harm reduction principles and fostering trust.”

—Dr. Eleanor Turi, Lead Author, Post-Doctoral Research Fellow

Several issues hamper efforts to increase access to low-barrier wound care. The lack of stable financing and clear billing practices for these specialized services poses a major challenge. Furthermore, there is a substantial need for healthcare professionals trained specifically in both harm reduction practices and wound care. A 2023 study by the CDC found that drug overdose deaths in the U.S. have increased, with over 100,000 fatalities reported (CDC).

Overcoming Obstacles

The research also emphasizes successful approaches to addressing these barriers. Establishing secure, sustainable funding through varied models such as grants and government support is vital. Creating specialized training programs centered on harm reduction and advanced wound care techniques is another key step. Moreover, building the capacity of organizations through dedicated clinical spaces and flexible staffing is essential.

Proposed Solutions

Additional measures include formal referral networks between hospitals and low-barrier clinics. Providing social services like food and housing support within these clinics can attract patients and meet their essential needs. Crucially, integrating harm reduction principles, emphasizing patient-centered care and non-judgmental attitudes, is essential. Finally, combatting stigma through education and policy changes is a critical step to fostering a supportive healthcare environment.

The study urges a more accessible, empathetic approach to wound care for people who use drugs. It offers practical steps to ensure this important service reaches those who need it most. The research team consisted of Shoshana V. Aronowitz, Amanda Bettencourt, Allison Li, Jessica Lin, Rachel McFadden, David Mandell, and Courtney Benjamin Wolk. Funding was provided by the Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics Small Pilot Awards, the National Institute of Mental Health, the National Clinician Scholars Program, and the National Institute of Drug Abuse.