Certification Exams

ABWH Certification Examination Information

The American Board of Wound Healing (ABWH) offers certification examinations designed to recognize advanced knowledge, clinical competency, and professional achievement in wound care and hyperbaric medicine. ABWH certification pathways are available for a variety of healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, technicians, therapists, podiatrists, and other allied health professionals who meet established eligibility requirements.

The certification examinations listed below evaluate knowledge, clinical experience, and specialty-specific competencies relevant to wound care and hyperbaric medicine practice. Certification may support professional development, demonstrate clinical expertise, and provide recognition of advanced knowledge within the specialty. APWCA provides this information as an educational resource. Certification examinations, eligibility requirements, application processes, fees, and credentialing decisions are administered independently by the American Board of Wound Healing (ABWH).

Need Help Preparing?

APWCA offers educational programs and resources, including the Wound Care Review Course, webinars, and continuing education opportunities designed to support clinicians pursuing professional development and certification preparation.

Available Certification Pathways Through the American Board Of Wound Healing

ABWH currently offers certification pathways for physicians and healthcare professionals involved in wound care and hyperbaric medicine.

Physician Certification in Hyperbaric Medicine

For physicians seeking certification in clinical hyperbaric medicine.

Physician Certification in
Wound Care

For physicians specializing in the diagnosis, assessment, and management of acute and chronic wounds.

Certified Hyperbaric & Wound Specialist (CHWS)

For qualified healthcare professionals involved in both hyperbaric medicine and wound care.

Certified Hyperbaric Specialist (CHS)

For professionals focused on hyperbaric medicine practice and chamber operations.

Certified Skin & Wound Specialist (CSWS)

For healthcare professionals involved in wound prevention, assessment, treatment, and patient care.

Continue Your Certification Journey

Whether you are exploring certification options, preparing for an examination, or seeking additional educational resources, APWCA offers programs designed to support your professional growth and clinical development.

Jeffrey A. Niezgoda

MD, MAPWCA,FACP, FIDSA, FUHMS, CW

Dr. Jeffrey Niezgoda is a nationally recognized leader in wound care, hyperbaric medicine, limb preservation, and regenerative medicine with more than 30 years of clinical experience. He is the Past President of the American Professional Wound Care Association (APWCA) and the American College of Hyperbaric Medicine.

Dr. Niezgoda has directed advanced wound care and hyperbaric programs, contributed to medical device development and clinical research, and served in leadership roles supporting innovation in wound management technologies and patient care. His expertise includes wound healing, vascular care, hyperbaric medicine, and regenerative clinical services.

Barbara Delmore

PhD, RN, CWCN, MAPWCA

Dr. Barbara Delmore is a board-certified wound care nurse, researcher, educator, and Senior Nurse Scientist at NYU Langone Health. With more than 35 years of nursing experience, she specializes in pressure injury prevention, chronic wound management, and evidence-based wound care practices.

Dr. Delmore has authored numerous publications, served on professional advisory boards, and received national recognition for her contributions to wound care research, education, and clinical innovation.

Jeffrey Lehrman

DPM, FASPS, MAPWCA

Dr. Jeffrey Lehrman is a nationally recognized expert in wound care documentation, coding, compliance, and podiatric medicine. Through Lehrman Consulting, LLC, he provides education and guidance related to healthcare coding, reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Dr. Lehrman serves as a staff liaison at the AMA CPT® Editorial Panel meetings and has held leadership positions within APWCA and other professional organizations focused on wound care and podiatric surgery.

Mark Melin

MD, FACS, RPVI, FACCWS

Dr. Mark Melin is a Senior Associate Consultant at the Mayo Clinic specializing in wound care, vascular medicine, and advanced wound healing technologies. His clinical expertise includes vascular assessment, chronic wound management, and emerging technologies in wound care.

Dr. Melin actively contributes to research, education, and advancements in wound healing practices focused on improving patient outcomes and interdisciplinary care.

Kathya Zinszer

DPM, FAPWCA

Dr. Kathya Zinszer is a podiatric physician specializing in diabetic foot care, wound management, limb preservation, and public health advocacy. She currently serves at Geisinger Medical Center and has extensive experience in both clinical practice and wound care education.

Dr. Zinszer has contributed to wound care publications, professional organizations, and clinical guideline initiatives related to diabetic foot management and wound prevention strategies.

Thomas E. Serena

MD, FACS, FACHM, MAPWCA

Dr. Thomas Serena is an internationally recognized wound care specialist, researcher, educator, and founder of The SerenaGroup®. He has established wound care centers throughout the United States and internationally and has led more than 100 clinical trials focused on wound healing and advanced therapies.

Dr. Serena has authored hundreds of scientific publications, delivered lectures worldwide, and held leadership positions within multiple wound care organizations, including APWCA, the Wound Healing Society, and the American College of Hyperbaric Medicine.