Program helps manage complex wounds

Luc Théot, a former surgeon at the Montpellier University Hospital, created Domoplaies, a care initiative supported by the regional Cicat-Occitanie program. The initiative was developed after Théot recognized that not everyone is trained to treat all medical conditions, especially chronic or complex wounds.

Teleconsultations bring care to patients

Domoplaies operates by connecting patients with their nurse’s phone, which is linked to medical experts. Through teleconsultations, these experts can guide care and provide support without the patient needing to visit a clinic. Experts involved include dermatologists, primary care doctors, and surgeons who can access patient information remotely.

Care pathway improves treatment outcomes

The program focuses on improving the care pathway for chronic wounds, which often leave patients unsure of who to consult. Once a problem is identified, Domoplaies connects patients with the right specialists. For emergencies, the initiative also helps by contacting specialists directly, enabling quicker treatment and better access to care.

Remote consultations reveal important details

Marion Mourges, the project leader, explains that teleconsultations allow experts to observe patients in their homes, gaining insight into their daily habits. For example, an expert once identified a patient was using an unsuitable cream by simply seeing the bottle, allowing for an immediate and accurate recommendation.

Program has long-term success

Domoplaies has been active in the Occitanie region since 2011 and was included in the Ministry of Health’s "Article 51" experiment in 2020. Since then, over 21,000 teleconsultations have taken place, leading to faster healing times and lower costs for patients involved.

Reduces emergency room use

The program has also had a measurable impact on hospital systems. Patients supported by Domoplaies have fewer non-hospitalization emergency room visits (17.5%) compared to a control group (21.1%). Additionally, hospitalizations through the emergency room are lower (25.2% vs 38.3%) among Domoplaies participants.