Date of Award

Fall 11-10-2025

Degree Type

Open Access Capstone

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Keywords

Wound care, rural health, diabetic foot ulcers, telehealth, mobile clinic

Abstract

Residents living in rural America suffer from complications of chronic wounds at higher rates due to limited access to care and specialists. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the inequities within the rural healthcare system and provide recommendations for mitigating gaps in care. Methods include analysis of qualitative and quantitative literature, synthesis of Census data, numeric trends, policy initiatives, and CDC data. This research yielded evidence supporting various types of home health and technology-based care as a reasonable intervention for ensuring adequate ongoing wound care among rural residents. Mobile wound care clinics and at-home wound care apps are both attainable and effective interventions for ensuring proper follow-up care of wounds once patients are discharged from the hospital, and providing consistent care for those living with chronic wounds. This paper confronts barriers in policy and addresses the necessary reform needed to make lasting change.

Comments

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