The University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) has officially launched a state-of-the-art burn unit within Batson Tower, enhancing its capacity to address the intricate needs of both adult and pediatric burn patients.
This development marks a significant expansion of the Mississippi Burn Center at UMMC, which was designated a state burn center by the Mississippi State Department of Health in 2023. This designation underscores UMMC’s leadership in burn care within the state and its dedication to improving patient outcomes for those with severe burn injuries.
The new unit consolidates acute treatment and rehabilitation services within a specialized 9,000-square-foot area. It features eight patient rooms, a hydrotherapy room dedicated to wound debridement, and a rehabilitation gym to aid physical and occupational therapy.
Staffed by a multidisciplinary team of experts in various fields such as emergency medicine, trauma surgery, plastic surgery, and critical care, the unit offers comprehensive care from immediate critical interventions to long-term rehabilitation. This collaborative approach ensures optimal recovery for burn patients.
The hydrotherapy room is designed to facilitate healing by minimizing the need for operating room visits. Equipped with a shower table, adjustable temperature controls, and a television, the space aims to provide comfort during essential procedures that prevent infection. For cases requiring surgery, operating room suites are conveniently located within the same tower, reducing transport time and enhancing care continuity.
“The larger rooms provide the necessary space for procedures like dressing changes directly in the patient’s room,” said Dr. Alan Jones, Associate Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs. “By cohorting burn patients, we reduce their exposure to infections common when mingling with other patients, allowing for better isolation and protection.”
Additionally, UMMC plans to introduce tele-burn consultations, enhancing support for hospitals and emergency providers statewide, particularly in rural areas. “This initiative allows rural hospitals to request consultations, enabling real-time assessments and expedited care,” said Dr. Juvonda Hodge, who took over as the Center’s director in 2024.
With over 17 years of experience in burn care, Dr. Hodge is spearheading efforts to enhance education, outreach, and clinical care. She has introduced hands-on training and learning opportunities for faculty, students, and first responders.
“Being an academic medical center, we impact not only our patients but also future healthcare providers,” noted Hodge. “Our training ensures that these professionals can effectively manage burn injuries, which is crucial in areas lacking burn specialists.”
In 2024, the Mississippi Burn Center admitted over 350 patients. The new unit is poised to better meet the increasing demand for quality burn care throughout Mississippi.
As Mississippi’s sole Level I trauma center, UMMC is uniquely positioned to provide coordinated, high-level care for patients with complex injuries. The establishment of this unit is a rare accomplishment, as UMMC becomes only the third academic medical center in the U.S. to inaugurate a new burn unit in the past 20 years.
“This achievement is a testament to the collaboration and commitment of our teams at UMMC, supported by state leadership,” said Hodge. “Burn care requires specialized training and the right environment, equipment, and coordination, all of which we have developed here.”
“Our new unit integrates advanced resources with a comprehensive, patient-centered approach,” added Jones. “It’s about delivering the best care and support throughout the patient’s recovery journey.”
