PCWC Eligibility Requirements

Hold an active, valid state medical license as an MD, DO, or DPM.
Have a minimum of two years of clinical experience in wound care.
Complete at least 20 hours of wound care–based continuing medical education (CME).
Documentation of membership in a professional wound care society (optional)
- Members of the American Professional Wound Care Association (APWCA) qualify for Fellow status (FAPWCA)

Candidates should review the complete application requirements and gather all required supporting documentation before applying.

What Does the PCWC Examination Assess?

The PCWC examination evaluates physician knowledge related to the diagnosis, assessment, and management of complex acute and chronic wounds.

The examination was developed and validated by physicians and focuses on subject areas directly related to clinical wound care practice.

Diagnosis & Management of Complex Wounds

The examination includes:

Diabetic ulcers
Venous ulcers
Arterial insufficiency ulcers
Pressure ulcers
Surgical wounds
Traumatic wounds
Atypical wounds

Physiology of Wound Healing

Candidates are assessed on biological and physiological principles involved in wound healing.

Wound Infection

The examination evaluates knowledge related to the diagnosis and management of wound infection.

Advanced Wound Care Modalities

Candidates should understand the appropriate utilization of advanced modalities used in wound care.

Medical-Legal & Documentation Standards

The examination also addresses medical-legal considerations and appropriate documentation practices related to wound care.

PCWC Exam Details

165 Multiple-Choice Questions

The PCWC examination consists of 165 multiple-choice questions covering the established wound care subject domains.

Online & Virtually Proctored

ABWH certification examinations are completed online using virtual proctoring and screen recording.

Available Year-Round

Approved candidates can complete the examination throughout the year rather than waiting for a single annual testing date.

One-Year Examination Window

Once your application is approved, you have one year from the approval date to complete the examination.

Passing Score

A score of 60% or greater is required to pass.

Immediate Results

Your examination score is displayed after you submit the completed exam and is also sent by email.

Professional Endorsements & Recognition

PCWC has documented professional relationships with organizations serving wound care and hyperbaric medicine professionals.

American Professional Wound Care Association (APWCA)

The American Professional Wound Care Association (APWCA) endorses the ABWH Physician Certification in Wound Care examination.

APWCA members who successfully complete the ABWH examination process may qualify to apply for Fellow status and use of the FAPWCA designation in accordance with APWCA requirements.

American College of Hyperbaric Medicine (ACHM)

The American College of Hyperbaric Medicine (ACHM) recognizes and endorses ABWH as a provider of the physician wound care certification examination.

These relationships are specific to PCWC and form part of the professional context surrounding the credential.

American Professional Wound Care Association (APWCA)
American College of Hyperbaric Medicine (ACHM) Recognized by hospital credentialing committees and accreditation boards

Preparing for the PCWC Examination

PCWC candidates should prepare using resources that address the examination’s established wound care domains.

ABWH currently recommends the following study materials:

Wound Care Essentials – Practice Principles, 4th Edition

Sharon Baranoski, MSN, RN and Elizabeth A. Ayello, PhD, RN

A wound care reference covering foundational and applied principles used across wound assessment and management.

Textbook of Chronic Wound Care: An Evidence-Based Approach for Diagnosis and Treatment, 1st Edition

Jayesh B. Shah, MD; Paul J. Sheffield, PhD; Caroline E. Fife, MD

A physician-oriented resource addressing the evaluation and treatment of chronic wounds.

Wound Care Certification Study Guide, 2nd Edition

Jayesh B. Shah, MD; Paul J. Sheffield, PhD; Caroline E. Fife, MD

A study resource developed specifically around wound care certification preparation.

Dr. Emily Carter, MD

“Highly Relevant and Professionally Structured”
The certification provided a thorough understanding of wound care principles and practical applications. The materials were well-organized, and the exam reflected real-world clinical scenarios. It’s an excellent credential for any physician involved in wound management.

Dr. Michael Reyes, DPM

“A Valuable Step Toward Career Growth”
This certification validated my experience and helped strengthen my hospital credentials. The process was straightforward, and the content was directly applicable to my daily practice. I would definitely recommend it to colleagues in podiatry and wound care.

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Physician Certification in Wound Care (PCWC)

PCWC At a Glance

For

Clinical Experience

Wound Care CME

Online Exam

Availability

Certification Fee