Committees
networks & groups
EWMA committees and groups engage a large number of professionals in different areas related to wound management. All are working towards the same goal: To support high quality wound management for individuals with complex wounds.
Read more about the EWMA committees and the important work they do here.
The Coop Org Liaisons Committee & Board
Members
- Kirsi Isoherranen, Immediate Past President (Chair)
- Maarit Ahtiala, Finland
- Paul Bobbink, Switzerland
- Sasa Milisevic, Serbia
- Marlene Pacheco, Belgium
- Tania Santos, Portugal
Description of Work
The Cooperating Organisations Liaisons Committee (COLC) consists of those members of the EWMA Council who are elected by the Cooperating Organisations Board. They are responsible for activities related to EWMA’s collaboration with the cooperating organisations and EWMA activities involving these organisations.
The Cooperating Organisations Board is made up of representatives from all the cooperating organisations of EWMA. EWMA maintains a regular communication with these representatives. The board meets once every year, at the Cooperating Organisations Board meeting held during the annual EWMA Conference, to discuss current topics of mutual interest or relevance, and to elect members of council from the cooperating organisations.
EWMA Scientific Committee
Members
EWMA
- Valentina Dini, EWMA, Scientific Recorder
- Dimitri Beeckman, EWMA
- Paul Bobbink, EWMA
- Elena Conde Montero, EWMA
- Samantha Holloway, EWMA
- Kirsi Isoherranen, EWMA
- Ewa Stürmer, EWMA
EWMA 2027 – Helsinki
- Karoliina Halmesmäki
- Maarit Ahtiala
- Leena Berg
EWMA 2028 – Amsterdam
- Names pending
Description of Work
The EWMA Scientific Committee is responsible for the organisation and planning of the scientific conferences of EWMA. In particular this committee is responsible for designing the scientific programme of the conferences, including the selection of focus topics and speakers as well as evaluation of abstracts.
EWMA Education Committee
Members
- Paulo Ramos, Portugal (Chair)
- Samantha Holloway, United Kingdom
- Evelien Touriany, Belgium
- Beata Gress Halasz, Slovakia
- Elena Conde Montero, Spain
- Corinne Scicluna, Malta
- Ana Lamza, Croatia
- Damien Pastor, Switzerland
- Paul Bobbink, Switzerland
- David Pérez Barreno, Spain
Description of Work
EWMA has focused on supporting good education in wound management since the initiation of the Educational Development Project in October 2000.
The aims of the committee are to produce a flexible framework for the delivery of interdisciplinary wound management education across Europe, to accommodate national variations in health care provision and to raise the profile of wound care in a variety of health care settings.
The activities within education are coordinated by the EWMA Education Committee.
Diabetic Foot Group
Members
- José Luis Lázaro Martínez, Spain (Chair)
- Alberto Piaggesi, Italy
- Ana Lamza, Croatia
- Andrea Gledhill, UK
- Armin Koller, Germany
- Caroline McIntosh, Ireland
- Chiara Goretti, Italy
- Dured Dardari, France
- Georgina Gethin, Ireland
- Jan Apelqvist, Sweden
- José Ramón March, Spain
- Julian-Dario Rembe, Germany
- Katariina Noronen, Finland
- Klaus Kirketerp-Møller, Denmark
- Magdalena Annersten Gershater, Sweden
- Marco Meloni, Italy
- Maria Iakova, Switzerland
- Martin Storck, Germany
- Naseer Ahmad, UK
- Natália Santos, Portugal
- Prash Vas, UK
- Roberto Ferraresi, Italy
- Ursula Werra-Buhz, Germany
- Vladimira Fejfarová, Czech Republic
Description of Work
The Diabetic Foot Committee is a new EWMA Committee which is established in 2023.
The primary aim of the committee will be to support the implementation of the IWGDF diabetic foot ulcer guidelines across Europe and to support increased research in the prevalence and management of the diabetic foot.
One of the implementation strategies that will be used to support guideline implementation across Europe is the Diabetic Foot Valley concept. You can find a short case description of the concept here.
Read more about the activities here.
Objectives:
- Support the implementation of the IWGDF Guideline across Europe
- Define the gaps between recommendations and clinical practice in selected regions across Europe
- Initiate and support projects aiming to reduce these gaps
- Support improved prevention of wounds across sectors
- Support rehabilitation after amputation
- Maintain and renew a strong network of DFU specialists (To ensure pan-European collaboration, e.g., in research activities and data collection
- Support education in DFU management
Sponsors
The Diabetic Foot Committee is sponsored by:
Translational Research Group
Members
- Alexandra Marques, Portugal (Chair)
- Andrea Pokorná, Czech Republic
- Ewa Stürmer, Germany
- Julian-Dario Rembe, Germany
Description of Work
This committee supports EWMA’s vision to accelerate translational research by bringing together all stakeholders involved in wound care, including academics, researchers, policy makers, clinicians, caregivers, and industry leaders. Primary aims of the committee are to shorten the time it takes for a new product to be available to patients, identify unmet clinical needs, and to link basic/applied research with clinical practice to support the development of new technologies and therapeutic options.
Why translational research?
Translational research takes scientific discoveries made in the laboratory, clinic or field and translates them into new treatments and approaches that improve population health. Basic and applied research is leading the way in developing new diagnostic and treatment modalities. Up till now, many of the treatments and approaches to wound care are not based on fundamental knowledge of the wounds to which they are applied. Also, increasing understanding of wound healing mechanisms and the specifics of each wound type or stage of healing has not been accompanied by corresponding advances in new diagnostic and treatment technologies. This suggests that the process of translating research findings into clinical interventions – translation – needs to change.
Translational Research covers two areas:
Applying new findings from preclinical studies to clinical trials leading to new technologies and treatments.
Developing current evidence and cost-effectiveness data on available treatment strategies to help identifying and select the best products and procedures.
EWMA believes that translational research promotes the multidirectional and multidisciplinary integration of basic, applied, patient-oriented, and population-based research, with the long-term goal of improving population health.
Objectives
To act as a platform for discussion between laboratory, clinical, researchers, industry, policy makers and patients and to accelerate dialogue on new wound therapies based on science and with the patient in mind;
To stimulate networking among those involved in wound care and to encourage participation and consultation of an interdisciplinary team in the development and testing of new ideas/projects/technologies at an early stage.
To make recommendations for the evaluation of health technologies at various levels and report of the results, contributing to the implementation of standardization, consensus, and guidelines.
To work with regulatory agencies to raise awareness of challenges related to the development of wound care products and existing testing methods and protocols.
To work with EU policy makers to highlight the need for further investment in wound care research and help redefine the research roadmap.
Patient Liaison Group
Members
- Evelien Touriany, Belgium (Chair)
- Mark Collier, UK
- Ana Lamza, Croatia
- Damien Pastor, Switzerland
- Tania Santos, Portugal
- Joan-Enric Torra-Bou, Spain
Description of Work
The objective of the EWMA Patient Liaison Group is to develop and maintain guidance information for patients with non healing wounds, to strengthen the involvement of the patient and their relatives in the wound management. The Patient Liaison Group also works to ensure that patients are aware of their rights to treatment and aims to support equal access to high quality wound management across Europe.
Stoma & Continence Care Group
Members
- Annika Fourie (Chair)
- Additional members will be invited to join the group
Description of Work
This group brings together professionals with a shared interest in stoma, fistula, and continence care to strengthen collaboration, promote knowledge exchange, and support greater visibility of these topics within EWMA.
Objectives
- Ensure representation of topics and key questions related to stoma and continence care in EWMA
- Develop structured sessions on stoma, fistula, and incontinence management in EWMA conferences
- Explore opportunities for collaboration across European professional groups.
The EWMA Wound Centres Group
Members
- Andrea Pokorná, Czech Republic (Chair)
- Hubert Vuagnat, Switzerland
- Magdalena Annersten Gershater, Sweden
- Luc Gryson, Belgium
- Paulo Ramos, Portugal
- Tanja Planincek Rucigaj, Slovenia
Description of Work
The committee responsible for the EWMA Wound Centre Directory and the Wound Centre Endorsement Programme. The group includes health care professionals (RN and MD) with a specialisation in wound management, substantial experience within the field of wound management and/or experience in developing/evaluating wound care centres in different European countries.
Crises & Conflict Preparedness Group
Members
- Evelien Touriany (Chair)
- More members will be invited to join the group
Description of Work
When crisis strikes, health systems are pushed to their limits – and access to trained professionals, essential supplies, and advanced wound care cannot be taken for granted.
This EWMA Group aims to engage in and support groups and initiatives aiming to build preparedness across Europe before it is needed.
Objectives:
- Raising awareness: understanding wound care challenges specific to conflict and disaster scenarios
- Fostering collaboration: connecting professionals and sharing knowledge across borders before a crisis occurs
- Enabling action: developing guidance, supporting innovation, and building partnerships across sectors
Antimicrobial Stewardship Group
Members
- Sebastian Probst, Switzerland (Co-chair)
- Ewa Stürmer, Germany (Co-chair)
- Kirsi Isoherranen, Finland
- Thomas Bjarnsholt, Denmark
- Julian-Dario Rembe, Germany
- Karen Ousey, UK
- Paulo Ramos, Portugal
- Viviana Goncalves, Portugal
Description of Work
The group is responsible for the EWMA Antimicrobial Stewardship Programme, which has been active since 2014.
With the growing global problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the EWMA Antimicrobial Stewardship Programme calls for prudent and appropriate use of antimicrobials (antibiotic or non-antibiotic) in wound management.
The aim of the programme is to promote:
- Infection prevention and control
- Correct diagnosis of infection
- Appropriate use of non-antibiotic antimicrobials in wound management across all healthcare settings
Compression Therapy Group
Members
- Alison Hopkins, UK (Chair)
- Elena Conde Montero, Spain
- David Peres Barreno, Spain
- Paulo Ramos, Portugal
- Evelien Touriany, Belgium
Description of Work
This group is responsible for the EWMA Compression Therapy Programme and campaign.
The EWMA Compression Therapy programme was initiated in 2020 and aims to increase the use and access of compression therapy to reduce harm and optimise treatment. Many people are not receiving this valuable therapy, and this is an important patient safety issue to focus on. To support these goals, we wish to raise awareness that:
- Compression is a powerful evidence-based therapy, and patients have a right to receive it!
- Introducing compression therapy early can speed up healing in most lower leg wounds.
- Compression therapy is powerfully effective and can be simple to use.
- Compression therapy should be used and understood by nurses, doctors and allied health professionals.
- Compression therapy helps in pain control and improve the quality of life.
NextGen Programme Group
Members
- Dimitri Beeckman, Belgium & Sweden (Chair)
- Alison Hopkins, UK
- José Luis Lazaro Martinez, Spain
- Ewa Stürmer, Germany
Description of Work
This group is responsible for the development and management of the NextGen European Wound Care Leaders Programme, which was established in 2025.
The NextGen European Wound Care Leaders Programme is an initiative designed to foster a new generation of European leaders in wound care. By implementing the programme, EWMA aims to equip new talents in wound management with the skills, knowledge, and networks necessary to drive innovation and excellence within EWMA and the broader healthcare community.
EWMA Industry Liaison Network
Members
- Dimitri Beeckman (EWMA President), Belgium/ Sweden
- Kirsi Isoherranen (EWMA Immediate Past President), Finland
- Industry representatives from the EWMA Corporate A sponsors
Description of Work
The EWMA Industry Liaison Network (ILN) was established in 2008 under the former name, the EWMA Patient Outcome Group (POG). The network’s primary activity is to organise biannual meetings for representatives of EWMA A-sponsors and project sponsors.
The overarching aim of these meetings is to address key topics such as challenges and opportunities within patient pathways and wound management more broadly, reimbursement structures, regulatory approval processes, and clinical trials and evidence in wound care. The meetings also serve as a forum to explore opportunities for joint initiatives between EWMA and industry partners, with a focus on achieving high-quality wound care for all individuals with non-healing wounds.
Objectives:
- Discuss and identify barriers to the implementation of evidence-based guidelines in wound healing
- Identify or support development of guidelines for clinical investigations in wound care
- Participate in the public debates and address policy-making on pan-European and national level
- Support consensus among heath care professionals, industry, reimbursement authorities, European collaborative groups and institutions on various aspects of wound management
EWMA GP Network
Members
- Catherina Rodas Krause, Chile (Chair)
- Kirsti Ahmajärvi, Finland
- Kirsi Isoherranen, Finland
- Sara Magalhães, Portugal
- Tomi Ranta, Finland
- Karine Majchrzak, Switzerland
- Daphne Hazell, UK
- Stephen Yelland, UK
- Maria Zarate, Mexico
- Tamara Sinožić, Croatia
- Bajrang Singh, UK
- Joshua Emmanuel, Malaysia
- Reka Seyeda, Finland
- Jadranka Kovačević, Croatia
- Andrea Bilic, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Javier Sierra Alonso, Spain
- Maynaga Jessica Pubalan, Malaysia
Description of Work
The EWMA GP Network was established in August 2023 by Kirsi Isoherranen. The network works to increase the involvement and interest of General practitioners (GPs) in wound management. GPs are very important healthcare professionals in wound care, often serving as the initial point of contact for patients. Their role in wound care includes the crucial aspects of wound diagnostics and the implementation of a holistic approach. By collaborating within multidisciplinary teams, GPs ensure that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care, essential for the success of wound healing and relapse prevention.
Why join the EWMA GP Network?
• Gain access to a network of GPs passionate about wound management
• Exchange knowledge, experiences, and best practices
• Collaborate on wound care projects and initiatives
• Enhance your professional development
How to get involved?
If you are a GP with a passion for wound management and are interested in becoming a part of the EWMA GP Network, please contact jb@ewma.org.
EWMA Young Wound Experts Network
Members
The group is open for wound experts in the early stages of their career, who are eager to connect with colleagues to collaborate and learn from each other.
Description of Work
This network was established with an introductory meeting held during the EWMA-GNEAUPP 2025 Conference in Barcelona, Spain, 26-28 March 2025. The network is multidisciplinary and open for experts in wound management in the early stages of their career who wishes to meet with other early-in-careers colleagues from across Europe to discuss opportunities within the field of wound management and jointly explore ways to contribute to the continued development of high quality treatment and care for individuals with non-healing wounds across the world.
Meetings will be arranged during the EWMA Conferences and online.
Diabetic Foot Committee
Members
- José Luis Lázaro Martínez, Spain (Chair)
- Alberto Piaggesi, Italy
- Ana Lamza, Croatia
- Andrea Gledhill, UK
- Armin Koller, Germany
- Caroline McIntosh, Ireland
- Chiara Goretti, Italy
- Dured Dardari, France
- Georgina Gethin, Ireland
- Jan Apelqvist, Sweden
- José Ramón March, Spain
- Julian-Dario Rembe, Germany
- Katariina Noronen, Finland
- Klaus Kirketerp-Møller, Denmark
- Magdalena Annersten Gershater, Sweden
- Marco Meloni, Italy
- Maria Iakova, Switzerland
- Martin Storck, Germany
- Naseer Ahmad, UK
- Natália Santos, Portugal
- Prash Vas, UK
- Roberto Ferraresi, Italy
- Ursula Werra-Buhz, Germany
- Vladimira Fejfarová, Czech Republic
Description of Work
The Diabetic Foot Committee is a new EWMA Committee which is established in 2023.
The primary aim of the committee will be to support the implementation of the IWGDF diabetic foot ulcer guidelines across Europe and to support increased research in the prevalence and management of the diabetic foot.
One of the implementation strategies that will be used to support guideline implementation across Europe is the Diabetic Foot Valley concept. You can find a short case description of the concept here.
Read more about the activities here.
Objectives:
- Support the implementation of the IWGDF Guideline across Europe
- Define the gaps between recommendations and clinical practice in selected regions across Europe
- Initiate and support projects aiming to reduce these gaps
- Support improved prevention of wounds across sectors
- Support rehabilitation after amputation
- Maintain and renew a strong network of DFU specialists (To ensure pan-European collaboration, e.g., in research activities and data collection
- Support education in DFU management
Sponsors
The Diabetic Foot Committee is sponsored by:
Stoma & Continence Care Group
Members
- Annika Fourie (Chair)
- Additional members will be invited to join the group
Description of Work
This group brings together professionals with a shared interest in stoma, fistula, and continence care to strengthen collaboration, promote knowledge exchange, and support greater visibility of these topics within EWMA.
Objectives
- Ensure representation of topics and key questions related to stoma and continence care in EWMA
- Develop structured sessions on stoma, fistula, and incontinence management in EWMA conferences
- Explore opportunities for collaboration across European professional groups.
Journal of Wound Management, Editorial Board
Members
- Georgina Gethin (Editor in Chief), Ireland
Description of Work
The Journal of Wound Management (JWM) is the official journal of EWMA. The JWM Editor is responsible for the journal and the JWM Editorial Board.
The JWM Editorial Board is responsible for defining the overall content line and strategy of the journal. The three annual publications of the JWM (April, July and October) are coordinated by the EWMA Secretariat in collaboration with the JWM Journal Editor.