
Our Care
Acute Burn Care
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Breast Reconstruction
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Frostbite
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Hand & Extremity Injuries
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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
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Outpatient Clinic
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Reconstructive Surgery
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Laser Scar Revision
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Skin & Soft Tissue Disorders
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About Us

Joseph M. Still - Our Founder
Joseph M. Still, Jr., M.D., dedicated his entire professional life to improvements in the treatment of burn patients. He partnered with Doctors Hospital in Augusta to create the Joseph M. Still Burn Center, one of the world’s leading treatment facilities for burn victims.
His care for patients, however, carried beyond hospital walls. Dr. Still also founded the Southeastern Firefighters’ Burn Foundation, Inc., a non-profit organization devoted to helping burn patients and their families with non-medical necessities. The Foundation operates the Shirley Badke Retreat, a place for people to stay while their family members are in the burn center.
Leadership was a way of life for Dr. Still. At 13, he became an Eagle Scout, and numerous honors and achievements led to his nomination as one of the “Outstanding Young Men in America.” A Charlotte, N.C., native, Dr. Still attended Shorter College in Rome, Ga., where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology and chemistry. He earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia in 1965 and completed his residencies at Duke University in 1973. Education was important to Dr. Still; he not only encouraged others to further their education, but financially supported their efforts as well.
Dr. Still was also dedicated to his family. He and Sue have 10 children and 26 grandchildren. They enjoyed traveling the world together, including taking annual trips with their children. They also shared a love for animals, and expressed that through the care of more than 1,000 exotic birds.
Dr. Still was a visionary, seeing the bigger picture that most could not see. Determined, generous, compassionate, hard-working, risk taking, problem-solving are adjectives that only begin to describe this friend and family man who affected the lives of thousands, and was loved by just as many.
Augusta, GA 30909
- Nation’s largest Burn Center
- 92 Beds dedicated for burn patients, including 36 ICU Beds, and 4 dedicated Operating Rooms
- 354 Beds
- Designated Burn and Trauma Center
- Inpatient and Outpatient Care
- Adult and Pediatric Care
- Patient Family Member Guesthouse and Retreat DIRECTIONS
- For appointments, please call (706) 651-3232 between the hours of 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday. After hours and on the weekends, please call (855) 863-9595.
Visiting Hours, General: 11am – 9pm
Visiting Hours, Burn ICU: 8:30am – 9am; 11:30am – 12:30pm; 2pm – 3pm; 5pm – 6pm; 9pm – 10pm
Parking: A Free Valet Parking is available at the main entrance of the hospital or Joseph M. Still Burn Center building
Tallahassee, FL 32308
- NEW FACILITY NOW OPEN
- 266 Beds
- Outpatient Care
- Adult and Pediatric Care
- For appointments, please call (855) 863-9595 between the hours of 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday. After hours and on the weekends, please call (855) 863-9595.
Parking: Free valet parking is available.
Jackson, MS 39204
- 36 Beds dedicated for burn patients, including 13 ICU Beds and 2 Operating Rooms
- 319 Beds
- Designated Burn and Trauma Center
- Inpatient and Outpatient Care
- Adult and Pediatric Care
- For appointments, please call (601) 376-2711 between the hours of 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday. After hours and on the weekends, please call (855) 863-9595.
Visiting Hours, General: 8am – 9pm
Visiting Hours, Burn ICU: 8am – 8:30am; 10:30am – Noon; 2pm – 3pm; 4:30pm – 6pm; 8pm – 8:30pm
Parking: Parking is available at the front of the hospital.
Valdosta, GA 31602
- SGMC IS NOW A VIRTUAL CLINIC
- 418 Beds
- Virtual Outpatient Care
- Adult and Pediatric Care
- For appointments, please call (229) 433-1000 between the hours of 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday. After hours and on the weekends, please call (855) 863-9595.
Charleston, SC 29406
- 407 Beds
- Level II Trauma Center
- Outpatient Care
- Adult and Pediatric Care
- For appointments, please call (843) 847-4988 between the hours of 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday. After hours and on the weekends, please call (855) 863-9595.
Parking: Valet parking is available at the front of the hospital
Austell, GA 30106
- 30 Beds dedicated for burn patients, including 8 ICU Beds and 1 dedicated Operating Room
- 382 Beds
- Inpatient and Outpatient Care
- Adult and Pediatric Care
- For appointments, please call (470) 732-7070 between the hours of 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday. After hours and on the weekends, please call (855) 863-9595.
Visiting Hours, General: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Visiting Hours, Burn ICU: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Parking: Parking for Outpatient Burn Wound and Hyperbaric Center is in the deck located to the left before entering the main visitor lot, overflow parking if full is in the main visitor lot on the right. Parking for OP is validated. Daily parking is $5.
Doctors

DEGREE
- M.D., VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, NASHVILLE, TN, 1985-1989
- B.A., MARYVILLE COLLEGE, MARYVILLE, TN, 1973-1977
RESIDENCY
- PLASTIC SURGERY, VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, NASHVILLE, TN, 2000-2002
- GENERAL SURGERY, MEDICAL COLLEGE OF OHIO, TOLEDO, OH, 1995-2000
- RESEARCH, MEDICAL COLLEGE OF OHIO, DEPARTMENT OF SURGERY, TOLEDO, OH, 1996-1997
- GENERAL SURGERY, MARSHALL UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, HUNTINGTON, WV, 1994-1995
- RESEARCH, UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE, DEPARTMENT OF SURGERY, CHATTANOOGA, TN, 1990-1991
- GENERAL SURGERY, UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE, CHATTANOOGA, TN, 1989-1991
FELLOWSHIP
- RESEARCH, VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, DEPARTMENT OF PLASTIC SURGERY, NASHVILLE, TN, 1997-1999
- RESEARCH, VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, DEPARTMENT OF PATHOLOGY, NASHVILLE, TN, 1987
BOARD CERTIFICATION
- AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY
CLINICAL INTERESTS
- ACUTE BURN CARE
- BURN RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY
- PLASTIC SURGERY
- SCAR MODULATION/LASER THERAPY
- WOUND CARE

DEGREE
- M.D., MEDICAL COLLEGE OF GEORGIA, AUGUSTA, GA, 1991-1995
- B.A., PSYCHOLOGY, EMORY UNIVERSITY, ATLANTA, GA, 1986-1990
RESIDENCY
- GENERAL SURGERY – CHIEF RESIDENT, ATLANTA MEDICAL CENTER, ATLANTA, GA, 2001-2002
- GENERAL SURGERY, ATLANTA MEDICAL CENTER, ATLANTA, GA, 1998-2001
BOARD CERTIFICATION
- AMERICAN BOARD OF SURGERY
CLINICAL INTERESTS
- ACUTE BURN CARE
- BURN RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY
- RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
- SKIN AND SOFT TISSUE INFECTIONS
- WOUND CARE
OTHER LANGUAGES
- GERMAN
- ITALIAN

DEGREE
- M.D., UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER, ROCHESTER, NY, 1991-1995
- B.A., BIOLOGY & PSYCHOLOGY, UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER, ROCHESTER, NY, 1987-1991
RESIDENCY
- PEDIATRICS, EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY, GREENVILLE, NC, 1995-1998
FELLOWSHIP
- CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE, CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL LOS ANGELES, LOS ANGELES, CA, 1999-2001
- PEDIATRIC CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE, GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY CHILDREN’S MEDICAL CENTER, WASHINGTON, D.C., 1998-1999
BOARD CERTIFICATION
- AMERICAN BOARD OF PEDIATRICS
- PEDIATRIC CRITICAL CARE
CLINICAL INTERESTS
- PEDIATRIC BURN
Richard Cartie hails from a small town in upstate New York. He always got good grades in school, and with them came the question from adults in his life: “Are you going to be a doctor when grow up?”
“I always thought that’s what you did with good grades,” Dr. Cartie said.
Once he got to college, he searched for something else that might interest him, changing his major three times. But once he started working at a hospital, he found his calling. His venture into pediatrics didn’t mean his career path was a typical one, tough. He knew that with his personality, critical care would be the best fit.
“I was unusual in the fact that I went into pediatrics knowing I wanted to do critical care,” he said. “I’m the kind of person who functions best under pressure as opposed to the day-to-day operations of an office setting.”
During his tenure in the PICU, Dr. Cartie diagnosed a patient with a rare condition, Stephens-Johnson Syndrome, which is often treated at burn centers. He referred that patient to JMS, and soon after received a recruiting call. He made the move to Augusta to head up the JMS pediatric unit, making him one of only a few doctors in the world who specialize in acute critical care of pediatric burns.
While he is not working, Dr. Cartie keeps up with his kids who are all in high school or college. He enjoys traveling with his family and an occasional game of volleyball.

DEGREE
- M.D., UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA, CHAPEL HILL, NC, 2005-2009
- B.S., BIOLOGY, EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY, CHAPEL HILL, NC, 2003-2005
RESIDENCY
- PLASTIC SURGERY, BAYLOR SCOTT AND WHITE, TEMPLE, TX, 2009-2015
BOARD CERTIFICATION
- AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY
CLINICAL INTERESTS
- HAND SURGERY
- MICRO SURGERY
- PLASTIC SURGERY
Cardiothoracic surgery was originally Dr. James Collins’s destination. That is until he began conducting research on regenerative medicine and cellular scaffolds in medical school. While observing plastic surgeons at work, he decided to take a different path for his medical journey. He had a wonderful experience and realized he could do a great amount of good for people.
Though there are many positive aspects of his chosen field, helping patients improve their quality of life is the most rewarding part of being a plastic surgeon for Dr. Collins.
He understands he cannot always make people exactly like they were before an injury, but he has the ability to help people improve their function and adapt to their new circumstances in a way that makes them forget any handicap that they might have. It is a very gratifying experience when Dr. Collins’ patients surpass his expectations for them.
Outside of work, Dr. Collins enjoys spending time with his wife and their pets. They enjoy the outdoor hobbies of hiking, river kayaking, and gardening. He also enjoys reading, playing chess, cooking, drawing, playing guitar, and new opportunities to learn.

DEGREE
- M.D., UNIVERSITY OF PUERTO RICO SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO, 1976-1980
- PRE-MED, UNIVERSITY OF PUERTO RICO, MAYAGUEZ, PUERTO RICO, 1972-1976
RESIDENCY
- UNIVERSITY PEDIATRIC HOSPITAL, SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO, 1981-1983
BOARD CERTIFICATION
- AMERICAN BOARD OF PEDIATRICS
- NATIONAL BOARD OF MEDICAL EXAMINERS
CLINICAL INTERESTS
- GENERAL PEDIATRICS
OTHER LANGUAGES
- SPANISH
While growing up in a small town in the south of Puerto Rico, Juan Colón-Santini was always interested in science. His father, an engineer, encouraged him to follow his instincts and make the best of the opportunities available.
As he progressed into high school, his interest began to narrow into medicine. Following his father’s advice, Dr. Santini pursued that interest as it came into sharper focus. During medical school, he decided that making a difference early on a child’s life was his passion.
He considers it a privilege to share what he has learned along years of practicing, especially with young couples and their young children. That’s what continues to rejuvenate his interest in the medical field.
Outside of the office, Dr. Santini enjoys working around the house and volunteering. He continues to lead an active lifestyle and participate in several activities. Though he misses the water sports of his home, such as sailing and diving, he has developed a love of golf while living in Augusta.

DEGREE
- M.D., RUTGERS UNIVERSITY, NEWARK, NJ, 2001-2005
- B.A., BIOLOGY, DREW UNIVERSITY, MADISON, NJ, 1996-2000
RESIDENCY
- GENERAL SURGERY, PENN STATE UNIVERSITY – HERSHEY MEDICAL CENTER, HERSHEY, PA, 2006-2012
FELLOWSHIP
- BURN SURGERY AND SURGICAL CRITICAL CARE, University of Texas Medical Branch and Shriners Hospital for Children, Galveston, TX, 2015-2016
- PLASTIC SURGERY, INDIANA UNIVERSITY, INDIANAPOLIS, IN, 2012-2015
- Postdoctoral Research – Shock and Trauma/Critical Care, Penn State UNIVERSITY – HERSHEY MEDICAL CENTER, HERSHEY, PA, 2007-2009
BOARD CERTIFICATION
- American Board of Surgery – General Surgery
- American Board of Surgery – Surgical Critical Care
- American Board of Plastic Surgery
Clinical Interests
- Acute Burn Care
- Burn Reconstruction Surgery
- Hand Surgery
- Nerve Repair
- Reconstructive Surgery
Research Interests
- Peripheral Nerve Injury
- Burn Research
- Microsurgery
Dr. Derek Culnan has been obsessed with fixing things for as long as he can remember. His interest in research and science drove him to a career in medicine. It was in the medical field that he could combine his love of research and repairing to help those in need. Dr. Culnan is drawn to perform the most technically challenging and complex operations.
During his time at Burn and Reconstructive Centers of America, he has found growth as a surgeon and a person. He enjoys being able to travel around the country and the world to help wherever he is needed. Dr. Culnan promises to give his patients all that he has, savoring the moments he’s able to rejoice with them.
When Dr. Culnan isn’t working, he enjoys spending time with his two children and wife. They love to ski and fish in their free time. He and his wife also spend much of their time editing and reviewing manuscripts, as well as authoring original work.

DEGREE
- M.D., BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, HOUSTON, TX, 1990-1994
- B.S., EXERCISE SCIENCE, UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, LOS ANGELES, CA, 1985-1989
RESIDENCY
- GENERAL SURGERY – CHIEF RESIDENT, BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, HOUSTON, TX, 1999-2001
- GENERAL SURGERY, BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, HOUSTON, TX, 1998-1999
- GENERAL SURGERY, BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, HOUSTON, TX, 1994-1996
FELLOWSHIP
- CRITICAL CARE, UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS MEDICAL BRANCH, GALVESTON, TX, 2005-2006
- GENERAL SURGERY, BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, HOUSTON, TX, 1996-1998
BOARD CERTIFICATION
- AMERICAN BOARD OF SURGERY – SURGICAL CRITICAL CARE
CLINICAL INTERESTS
- ACUTE BURN CARE
- BURN RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
- CRITICAL CARE
- RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
- SCAR MODULATION/LASER THERAPY
Long before he was a surgeon, Shawn Fagan cared for burn and trauma patients. As an EMT in one of the most notorious neighborhoods in Los Angeles, the 24-hour ambulance shifts were often a blur of traumatic incidents and other emergency calls. But it also provided focus for Dr. Fagan’s career path.
He saw, first-hand, the injuries and challenges many of these patients faced. It became harder and harder to just drop them off at a hospital and move on to the next call. He wanted to do more.
He went to medical school and focused his care on trauma and burn patients, completing various fellowships and training with world-renowned surgeons along the way.
Dr. Fagan is honored to have shared time in the classroom, emergency room and operating room with some wonderful surgeons and mentors. Each one had a different style and a different approach, and he finds himself calling on their lessons daily.
During his career, Dr. Fagan has cared for thousands of burn and trauma patients, including patients from the Boston Marathon bombing while he was working at the Sumner Redstone Burn Center at Massachusetts General Hospital – where he served as Medical Director.
Away from the burn center, Dr. Fagan enjoys the outdoors and spending time with his wife, Kim, and their three children.

DEGREE
- M.D., M.B.A., DREXEL UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, PHILADELPHIA, PA, 2002-2007
- B.S., BIOLOGY, WILKES UNIVERSITY, WILKES-BARRE, PA, 1998-2002
INTERNSHIP
- GENERAL SURGERY, LOYOLA UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER, MAYWOOD, IL, 2007-2008
RESIDENCY
- PLASTIC SURGERY, INDIANA UNIVERSITY, INDIANAPOLIS, IN, 2013-2016
- GENERAL SURGERY, LOYOLA UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER, MAYWOOD, IL, 2008-2012
FELLOWSHIP
- SURGICAL CRITICAL CARE FELLOWSHIP, THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY, PHILADELPHIA, PA, 2016-2017
- BURN FELLOWSHIP, INDIANA UNIVERSITY, INDIANAPOLIS, IN, 2012-2013
BOARD CERTIFICATION
- AMERICAN BOARD OF SURGERY
CLINICAL INTERESTS
- ACUTE CRITICAL CARE
- BURN RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY
- RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

DEGREE
- M.D., INSTITUTE OF POST GRADUATE MEDICINE & RESEARCH, UNIVERSITY OF DHAKA, DHAKA, BANGLADESH, 1981-1987
- JHENIDAH CADET COLLEGE, JHENIDAH, BANGLADESH, 1979-1980
RESIDENCY
- PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY, UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS MEDICAL CENTER, KANSAS CITY, KS, 1998-2000
- GENERAL SURGERY, NYU MEDICAL CENTER, NEW YORK, NY, 1994-1997
FELLOWSHIP
- BURN SURGERY, UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS MEDICAL CENTER, KANSAS CITY, KS, 1997-1998
CLINICAL INTERESTS
- ACUTE BURN CARE
- BURN RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY
- PLASTIC SURGERY
- SCAR MODULATION/LASER THERAPY
OTHER LANGUAGES
- BENGALI
A native of Bangladesh, Zaheed Hassan came to the US in 1988 to further his medical career. After completing residencies in both plastic and general surgery, it was a fellowship at the University of Kansas Medical Center that shaped his future for years to come. This fellowship lead him to a career in burn surgery.
Dr. Hassan joined the staff of the Joseph M. Still Burn Center in 2000 and has called Augusta “home” ever since. He currently serves as the Vice President of Burn and Reconstructive Centers of America.
Apart from his family, his patients are most important to him. Dr. Hassan’s goal is to do what’s necessary to first heal their wounds, and then get them back to as normal a life as possible.
That mentality has led Dr. Hassan to serve in many organizations in the medical community, including the Medical Association of Georgia, American Burn Association, American Society of Plastic Surgeons, International Society of Burn Injuries, Bangladesh Medical Association of North America and several others. He is also an active member of the Augusta community, having received the 2004 Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business Person of the Year Award, and has been an integral part of the Islamic Society of Augusta and its community development.
Despite his busy schedule, Dr Hassan still drops off his children at school each morning. When he has free time he enjoys fishing, gardening, playing golf and traveling.

DEGREE
- M.D., MOREHOUSE SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, ATLANTA, GA, 2001-2005
- B.A., LIBERAL ARTS, HARVARD UNIVERSITY, CAMBRIDGE, MA, 1997-2000
RESIDENCY
- GENERAL SURGERY, NORTH SHORE UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL, MANHASSET, NY, 2006-2011
FELLOWSHIP
- CRITICAL CARE AND BURN, UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS MEDICAL BRANCH, GALVESTON, TX, 2011-2012
BOARD CERTIFICATION
- AMERICAN BOARD OF SURGERY
- SURGICAL CRITICAL CARE
CLINICAL INTERESTS
- ACURE BURN CARE
- BURN RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY
- CRITICAL CARE
OTHER LANGUAGES
- LAO
In the late 1970s, Bounthavy Homsombath’s family immigrated to the United States as part of a wave of refugees from the southeast Asian nation of Laos. The family settled in the suburbs of Rochester, NY. During high school and college, he worked as a mental health counselor for autistic children, which set him on the path toward a career in the medical field.
However, it was a critical care and burn fellowship that helped Dr. Homsombath discover his calling. It’s something he still gets fulfillment from each day, as he assists patients along the path to their pre-injury life. He’s lived his life wanting to make a difference in the world and does so through his work.
When he’s not busy caring for his patients, Dr. Homsombath spends his free time with family. He especially enjoys boating on the lake or the ocean with his wife and children.

Chief Research Officer - BRCA
DEGREE
- M.D., UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, GAINESVILLE, FL, 1972-1976
RESIDENCY
- PLASTIC SURGERY, UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN FRANCISCO, SAN FRANCISCO, CA. 1984-1986
- GENERAL SURGERY, UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA, GAINESVILLE, FL, 1979-1983
FELLOWSHIP
- HAND AND MICROSURGERY, DAVIES MEDICAL CENTER, SAN FRANCISCO, CA, 1986-1987
BOARD CERTIFICATION
- AMERICAN BOARD OF SURGERY
- AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY
CLINICAL INTERESTS
- ACUTE BURN CARE
- BURN RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY
- HAND SURGERY
- MICRO SURGERY
- RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
Dr. William Lineweaver’s engagement in medicine is a long story that is populated by a roster of outstanding teachers. He credits his mentors with his success. His interest in burn was dormant for a long time until the only burn unit in Mississippi closed in 2005. When Dr. Lineweaver had an opportunity to work for JMS, he couldn’t help but join the team. His principle teacher in burn surgery management has been Dr. Fred Mullins, who continues to introduce clinical and administrative innovations that are having remarkable influence on the development of burn care in this country.
Dr. Lineweaver finds that his position at JMS allows him to maintain a rich clinical practice with a great amount of variety both in burn care and reconstructive surgery. The practice has supported the development of the number of research initiatives which promote academic development. His productive and supportive colleagues have played a major role in his enjoyment with the JMS Burn Centers.
Dr. Lineweaver currently serves as the Chief Research Officer for Burn and Reconstructive Centers of America.
Outside of work he enjoys listening to music, literature, and traveling.

PRESIDENT OF BRCA
DEGREE
- M.D., MEDICAL COLLEGE OF GEORGIA SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, 1992-1996
- B.S.-P.A., MEDICAL COLLEGE OF GEORGIA SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, AUGUSTA, GA, 1989-1991
- AUGUSTA COLLEGE, AUGUSTA, GA, 1985-1989
RESIDENCY
- GENERAL SURGERY, SPARTANBURG REGIONAL HEALTHCARE SYSTEM, SPARTANBURG, SC, 1996-2001
BOARD CERTIFICATIONS
- AMERICAN BOARD OF SURGERY
CLINICAL INTERESTS
- ACUTE BURN CARE
- BURN RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY
- SKIN AND SOFT TISSUE INFECTIONS
- WOUND CARE
Healing people runs in Fred Mullins’s family. He is connected to a long history of caring for the Augusta area, so it wasn’t a surprise when he graduated from the Medical College of Georgia as a Physician Assistant. He joined the staff of the burn center in Augusta, working under the tutelage of Dr. Joseph M. Still—the namesake and founder of the nation’s largest burn center. Dr. Mullins then returned to the Medical College of Georgia and obtained his Medical Degree in 1996. He completed his General Surgery residency at Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System in 2001, and returned to the private practice of Joseph M. Still Burn Centers, Inc., as a burn surgeon.
“Being a burn surgeon is truly a calling,” Dr. Mullins said. “While it can be emotionally and physically exhausting at times, I believe it is one of the most rewarding specialties.”
He describes the times he gets to interact with patients away from the burn center—like at survivor reunions—as some of the most special occasions.
“Seeing them getting back to as much of their pre-burn life as possible is great,” he said. “I enjoy seeing them smile, and there’s something extra special about knowing you and your team helped them get there.”
Dr. Mullins’s expertise includes the full spectrum of burn care, from field treatment, to surgery, to long-term care and rehabilitation.
“We have always believed that following a patient from their initial injury all the way through their long-term rehabilitation is best for all involved,” he said. “It allows us to build relationships and we get to really know the patients. That allows us, for example, to know if they are just having a bad day in their recovery process or if something more severe is wrong.”
That circle of care starts with a referral phone call. Often, it is Dr. Mullins taking those calls for the burn center.
“We accept every patient, every time,” he said. “We try to make the process as seamless as possible, and make sure the care of the patient is always at the top of our priority list.”
Dr. Mullins became the Medical Director of the Joseph M. Still Burn Center in July of 2004, when Dr. Still had to retire from active practice due to health problems. He now serves as President of Joseph M. Still Burn Centers, Inc., which has four clinics in the Southeast: the original in Augusta, full-service burn units in Jackson, MS, and Austell, GA, and outpatient clinics in Valdosta, GA, and Charleston, SC. He is also the President of Burn and Reconstruction Centers of America; Burn and Reconstruction Centers of Florida, which operates facilities in Miami, FL, and Bradenton, FL; Burn and Reconstruction Centers of Colorado, which operates facilities in Englewood, CO, and Aurora, CO; and Burn and Reconstruction Centers of Texas, which operates a facility in Plano, TX.

DEGREE
- M.D., LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY MEDICAL SCHOOL, LOMA LINDA, CA, 1962-1966
- B.S., BIOLOGY, UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO, TOLEDO, OH, 1958-1962
RESIDENCY
- PLASTIC SURGERY, SAINT FRANCIS MEMORIAL HOSPITAL, SAN FRANCISCO, CA, 1973-1976
- GENERAL SURGERY, SANTA BARBARA COTTAGE HOSPITAL, SANTA BARBARA, CA, 1970-1973
BOARD CERTIFICATION
- AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY
CLINICAL INTERESTS
- PLASTIC SURGERY
- RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
OTHER LANGUAGES
- GERMAN
- HUNGARIAN
Hermann Orlet and his family lived in Europe during World War II. After immigrating to the United States, 10 years after the war ended, he served in the U.S. Air Force and began his journey into healthcare.
All along, his initial intent was to go into cardiovascular surgery, but it became evident during medical school that this specialty would put inordinate demands on his time to allow for a family life. Witnessing and assisting in the facial and oral reconstruction of a patient with a war wound from Vietnam, led to his reorientation into plastic surgery.
Dr. Orlet was blown away by what the doctor had done. Being able to impact a person’s life was what drove his career path. After joining the team at JMS in 1985, Dr. Orlet has continued to play a large role in the growth of the Burn Foundation of America, formally known as the Southeastern Firefighters Burn Association. Their campus dedicated the Orlet Garden of Hope to Dr. Orlet and his wife for their dedication and efforts towards their mission.
He no longer operates but still sees burn and reconstructive patients in a clinical setting, coordinating his experience with the current surgical team.

DEGREE
- M.D., UTESA SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, 1982-1985
- B.S., UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA, GAINESVILLE, FL, 1979-1981
- B.A., HISTORY, FAYETTEVILLE STATE UNIVERSITY, FAYETTEVILLE, NC, 1975-1979
RESIDENCY
- PEDIATRICS, HAHNEMANN UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL, PHILADELPHIA, PA, 1986-1988
FELLOWSHIP
- PEDIATRIC CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE, UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA MEDICAL CENTER, JACKSONVILLE, FL, 1988-1991
CLINICAL INTERESTS
- PEDIATRIC BURNS
Army veteran, Raul Ponte, started his medical career in 1981 as a Physician Assistant in Jacksonville, FL. It didn’t take him long to decide that wasn’t enough. After just a year, he went back to medical school to become a physician to focus on helping children.
In 2003, his mother’s health necessitated a move to Florida, where he became Medical Director and Director of Pediatric Critical Care Services at Plantation General Hospital. It was there, through his cooperation with Burn and Reconstructive Centers of America’s facility at Kendall Regional Medical Center in Miami, that he became interested in focusing solely on pediatric burn and trauma patients. That led him to his current position at the nation’s largest burn center and the BRCA flagship, the Joseph M. Still Burn Center in Augusta, GA.
His experience in caring for children and ensuring they are receiving the highest standard of care goes far beyond hospital walls.

DEGREE
- M.D., Thomas Jefferson Medical School, Philadelphia, PA, 1996-2000
- MBA, Georgia College and State University, Milledgeville, GA, 2015-2016
- B.S., Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 1981-1985
- B.A., Education, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 1990-1992
- B.S., Biotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 1992-1994
RESIDENCY
- Family Practice Residency, Womack Army Medical Center, Fort Bragg, NC, 2000-2003
BOARD CERTIFICATIONS
- AMERICAN BOARD OF FAMILY MEDICINE
- AMERICAN BOARD OF WOUND CARE MANAGEMENT
CLINICAL INTERESTS
- HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY
- SKIN AND SOFT TISSUE INFECTIONS
- ULCERS (DIABETIC, PRESSURE, VENOUS STASIS)
- WOUND CARE

DEGREE
- M.D., University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, 2000-2004
- B.S., Molecular Biology, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC, 1996-2000
RESIDENCY
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Jackson Memorial Hospital at University of Miami, Miami, FL, 2009-2011
- General Surgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA, 2005-2009
INTERNSHIP
- General Surgery, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA, 2004-2005
FELLOWSHIP
- Hand Surgery Fellowship, Jackson Memorial Hospital at University of Miami, Miami, FL, 2018-2019
BOARD CERTIFICATIONS
- AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY

DEGREE
- PH.D., MICROSURGERY AND ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY, FU DAN UNIVERSITY, SHANGHAI, CHINA, 1986-1991
- M.B.B.S., FU DAN UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, SHANGHAI, CHINA, 1978-1983
RESIDENCY
- MICROSURGERY AND ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY, ZHONGSHAN HOSPITAL, FU DAN UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, SHANGHAI, CHINA, 1986-1989
- GENERAL SURGERY, ZHONGSHAN HOSPITAL, FU DAN UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, SHANGHAI, CHINA, 1984-1986
FELLOWSHIP
- PLASTIC SURGERY RESEARCH, DIVISION OF PLASTIC SURGERY, DEPARTMENT OF FUNCTIONAL RESEARCH, STANFORD UNIVERSITY, STANFORD, CA, 1993-1998
- MICROSURGERY RESEARCH, DEPARTMENT OF MICROSURGICAL REPLANTATION TRANSPLANTATION, CALIFORNIA PACIFIC MEDICAL CENTER, SAN FRANCISCO, CA, 1991-1993
Burn Facts

- How Are Burns Classified?
-
CLASSIFY BURN IN TERMS OF DEGREES:
First Degree (also called Superficial Partial Thickness)
- These burns only include the outer layer for skin (the dermis), and are marked by red, pink or dark pink skin. The burns are usually painful, but there are no blisters and will heal in a week or so.
Second Degree (also called Partial Thickness)
- These burns progress deeper into the dermis and may include large blisters and may have a wet appearance. These burns will take 14-21 days to heal.
Third Degree (also called Full Thickness)
- These burns may have a charred appearance, be leathery or white in color and feel dry to the touch. Often, the burned areas will lose sensation and include the entire depth of skin. Healing will likely require skin grafts and rarely more intensive methods.
Fourth Degree (also called Full Thickness)
- These burns progress down to muscles, tendons and bones. Often, skin grafts, intensive surgeries and even amputations may be required for healing.
- What Should You Do Right After a Burn?
-
- Remove ALL clothing and jewelry.
- Run cool water over the burn for several minutes.
- Do not place any home remedies including butter, ointments or ice on burned areas.
- Do not use cotton balls or wool to clean a burn.
- Do not burst any blisters.
- Cover the burn with a clean bandage or clean cloth.
- Call 911 if the burn is:
- deep (large broken blisters)
- involves the face, genitalia or a large body surface area (such as the entire chest, an arm, a leg or more)
- For pain, take ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Treating Third and Fourth Degree Burns
-
- Both almost always require skin grafting and/or some type of surgery. In many cases, fourth degree burns will also require some level of amputation to ensure the best possible outcome.
- These burns usually take at least four to six weeks to heal, depending on the size of the burn it may be longer.
- They also require expertise in excisions that is only available in a burn center. Both rehabilitation and long-term scar management modalities should be part of the care plan.
Education
- Light fireworks one at a time in a designated area, away from dry grass, homes and children.
- Fireworks should never be fired indoors.
- Designate someone as the safety person, someone as the “shooter” and someone to be in charge of keeping children clear of the “shooting” area.
- Make sure the “shooter” is not wearing loose clothing that could ignite, and follows all directions on the fireworks label. If the device does not have a warning and/or instructions label, do not fire it.
- Never stand over an item that does not fire.
- Never throw fireworks. A malfunctioning fuse could cause the item to go off in your hand.
- Get a flashlight to light the area so the “shooter” can see what he or she is doing.
- Ensure a fire extinguisher, hose or bucket of water is nearby just in case there is an accident.
- Keep pets and animals away as they may be frightened by the noise.
- If you are close enough to the storm to hear thunder, you are close enough to get struck by lightning.
- Safe shelters include homes, large buildings, or hard-topped vehicles. Never use tall trees as a shelter or stay in open water if you hear thunder.
- If you are indoors, avoid using water, electronic equipment and corded telephones. Stay away from windows and doors.
- If no shelter is available, do not lie down on the ground. Instead, crouch as low and tight as you can.
- Call 911.
- Check their vital signs immediately.
- Start CPR, if needed.

- Remember: Space heaters need space. Keep them at least 36 inches away from items that can catch fire.
- Have a working fire extinguisher close by.
- Check your extension and power cords, and replace any that are damaged.
- Don’t connect more than two extension cords together.
- Never run an extension cord under a rug.
- Make sure electrical outlets are not overloaded.
- Test the Temp: Your hot water heater thermostat should be set no higher than 120oF.
- The skin of children – as well as the elderly – is thinner than a regular adult’s. It takes much less time for them to sustain a significant burn injury.
- For example, if a child is placed in water that measures 120 degrees, a potentially severe burn can occur in just seconds.
- You should always make sure your hot water heater is set no higher than 120 degrees.
- People should be aware of the dangers of flammable liquids, including gasoline and kerosene. Not only is the liquid dangerous, but the fumes can cause burns and explosions.
- Always store flammable liquids in a clean, well-ventilated area.
Temporary or permanent tissue damage caused by prolonged exposure to temperatures less than 23° F.
Contributing Factors:
- Extreme Cold
- Inadequate Clothing
- Wet Clothing
- Wind Chill
- Tight Clothing
- Smoking
- Alcohol
- Diabetes
Classification of Frostbite Injury (Similar to Burn Injury):
- First-degree: Superficial without blister formation
- Second-degree: Light colored blisters with subsequent peeling
- Third-degree: Dark blisters that evolve into thick, black scabs
- Fourth-degree: Involves bone, tendon and/or muscle
Ways to Avoid Frostbite:
- Plan and communicate. Check the weather. Let people know where you are going to be and the route you plan to take.
- Do not stay outdoors too long in extremely cold weather, especially if it is windy.
- Dress in loose layers of warm clothes, preferably windproof and waterproof. If you do get wet, change out of the wet clothes as soon as you can.
- Make sure any clothing, gloves, socks or other items are designed to wick moisture away from the body.
- Make sure any hat or headband covers your ears.
- Consider the use of foot and hand warmers.
- If you become cold, try to drink warm, sweet beverages.
- Do not drink alcohol before or while outdoors in extremely cold air.
- If you get lost, don’t stop moving. The exercise helps keep you warm and the blood flowing throughout your body.
- Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your house, bushes or other flammable materials.
- Never, ever use a match to check for leaks.
- Find leaks by spraying soapy water on gas line connections. If you see water bubbles, there is a leak.
- Never use gasoline as a starter fluid for charcoal grills.
- Dispose of hot coals properly: Soak with water, and then stir to make sure the fire is out.
- Always shut off propane tank valve when not in use.
- Never try to light a gas grill with the lid closed.
- Always wear short sleeves and/or tight-fitting clothing while grilling.
- Make your kitchen a “kid free zone” to keep kids away from the stove, oven and other appliances. Scalds are the most common types of burns for children.
- Never leave the kitchen when you are cooking something.
- Keep pot handles turned over the stovetop.
- Turn off appliances as soon as cooking is done.
- Before you eat it, give food cooked in a microwave extra time to cool.
- Do not heat a baby bottle in the microwave.
- Make sure a child cannot turn the knobs on the cooking appliances.
- Never cook or eat hot foods or drink hot liquids while holding a child.
- Store candy, cookies and other tasty treats away from the stove so children can’t get burned while trying to get them.
- Never leave the oven door open. A child can trip and fall onto the hot surface.
- Do not use the oven as a heat source.
- Symptoms: Skin is red, tender, warm, possibly swollen and/or blistering.
- “Sun poisoning” may also occur. Symptoms may include: fever, chills, nausea, or a rash.
Sunburn Treatment:
- Apply cool compresses.
- Moisturize with alcohol-free lotions.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- DO NOT apply oil or butter.
- DO NOT use harsh soap scrubs.
Staying Safe in the Sun
- Sunburns are caused by UV rays, not the heat of the sun. That means severe burns can occur even on cloudy days.
- Apply at least 35 SPF sunscreen 30 minutes before going out in the sun.
- Reapply sunscreen at least every 30 minutes, especially if you are sweating a lot or spending time in the water.
- When applying sunscreen plus another substance like bug repellent, apply sunscreen first, wait 30 minutes, then apply the other substance.
- Wear wide brim hats.
- Avoid tanning for long periods, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Keep babies less than one year old out of direct sunlight.
- Do not apply sunscreen to babies less than 6 months old.
Not just the UV Rays
- Be mindful of hot surfaces in cars (windows, hood, seats, dashboard).
- Hot sand or asphalt can severely burn the skin on the bottom of the feet while walking.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Accepted Insurances
-
We accept the following insurances at Joseph M. Still Burn Centers, Inc. If you do not see your insurance company listed below, or unsure if your insurance provider will be accepted, please call 855-863-9595 and ask for Insurance Enrollment.
DOCTORS HOSPITAL OF AUGUSTA
- Absolute Total Care
- Aetna / Coventry
- Amerigroup
- BlueChoice
- BlueCross BlueShield
- CareSource
- Cigna
- Department of Labor
- Eon Health
- Humana
- Kaiser Permanente
- Magnolia Health
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Mississippi Physicians Care Network
- Molina Healthcare
- Multiplan
- NaphCare
- Peachstate
- Positive Healthcare
- Pruitt Health
- Select Health
- Three Rivers Provider Network
- TRICARE
- United Healthcare
- Veterans Choice
- WellCare
MERIT HEALTH CENTRAL
- Absolute Total Care
- Aetna / Coventry
- Amerigroup
- AmeriHealth Caritas
- BlueChoice
- BlueCross BlueShield
- CareSource
- Cigna
- Department of Labor
- Eon Health
- Humana
- Louisiana Healthcare Connections
- Magnolia Health
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Mississippi Physicians Care Network
- Molina Healthcare
- Multiplan
- NaphCare
- Select Health
- Three Rivers Provider Network
- TRICARE
- United Healthcare
- Veterans Choice
- WellCare
SOUTH GEORGIA MEDICAL CENTER
- Absolute Total Care
- Aetna / Coventry
- Amerigroup
- BlueChoice
- BlueCross BlueShield
- CareSource
- Cigna
- Department of Labor
- Eon Health
- Humana
- Magnolia Health
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Molina Healthcare
- Multiplan
- NaphCare
- Peachstate
- Pruitt Health
- Select Health
- Three Rivers Provider Network
- TRICARE
- United Healthcare
- Veterans Choice
- WellCare
TRIDENT MEDICAL CENTER
- Absolute Total Care
- Aetna / Coventry
- Amerigroup
- BlueChoice
- BlueCross BlueShield
- CareSource
- Cigna
- Department of Labor
- Eon Health
- Humana
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Molina Healthcare
- Multiplan
- NaphCare
- Pruitt Health
- Select Health
- Three Rivers Provider Network
- TRICARE
- United Healthcare
- Veterans Choice
- WellCare
WELLSTAR COBB HOSPITAL
- Absolute Total Care
- Aetna / Coventry
- Amerigroup
- BlueChoice
- BlueCross BlueShield
- CareSource
- Cigna
- Department of Labor
- Eon Health
- Humana
- Kaiser Permanente
- Magnolia Health
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Molina Healthcare
- Multiplan
- NaphCare
- Peachstate
- Positive Healthcare
- Pruitt Health
- Select Health
- Three Rivers Provider Network
- TRICARE
- United Healthcare
- Veterans Choice
- WellCare
- WellStar Clinical Partners
- How Do I Make An Appointment?
-
It’s simple. Call our office at 855-863-9595 and we can get the appointment process started.
- Where Can I Stay Near the Burn Center?
-
There are numerous hotels nearby, including some that provide shuttle service to and from the hospital.
View Hotels Near Doctors Hospital (Augusta, GA)
View Hotels Near South Georgia Medical Center (Valdosta, GA)
View Hotels Near Trident Health (North Charleston, SC)
- Are there any burn survivors I or my family can talk to?
-
One of the best resources is the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, which is a national organization focused on helping burn survivors and their family members “get back to living.”
- Where can I get a list of burn resources to help me or my family member in burn recovery?
-
Doctors
- To speak with support services, please call (706) 651-6660 or email tom.dorn@hcahealthcare.com
Merit Health Central
- To speak with support services, please call: (601) 376-2882
South Georgia Medical Center
- To speak with support services, please call: (229) 671-6815
Trident Medical Center
- To speak with support services, please call: (843) 847-5078
WellStar Cobb
- To speak with support services, please call: (470) 732-7070
- Can I Donate My Skin to Help Burn Patients?
-
At this time, there are no skin banks or medical facilities in America who accept skin from live donors.
- How Long Is a Patient Usually in the Burn Center?
-
It varies. The length of stay depends on the percentage of body burned, depth of burn (2nd or 3rd degree) and other medical complications involved (such as diabetes, heart disease, etc.). Typically, patients who experience a burn to a larger portion of their body can expect to stay in the hospital 1-day per percentage of Total Body Surface Area covered by the burn. You may hear Total Body Surface Area referred to as TBSA.
- Will There Be Scarring?
-
Most second-degree burns heal with minimal scarring and pigmentation does return. All third-degree burns must be grafted with the individual’s own skin. Therefore, a scar is likely.
- What can a family do to prepare for the patient’s return home?
-
Discharge planning begins at admission with early identification of discharge needs. A case manager and social worker prepare the family for discharge.
- My loved one does not have medical insurance, what can I do to help them?
-
Trained professional, financial counselors are available at the hospital to assist with possible funding programs.
- Do I have to wait for my loved one to make a Social Security disability application?
-
No, you can call (800) 772-1213 to initiate the application process.
- How can I donate blood for my loved one?
-
Contact the American Red Cross at redcrossblood.org or 800-GIVE-LIFE to find out how and where you can give blood.
- Make sure that you do not have anything to eat or drink at least 6 hours before coming to the clinic to be seen for your burn or wound. This includes water, hard candy, mints, ice chips, or chewing gum.
- Do go over your medications with the staff at the clinic.
- Please make sure that you have a responsible adult with you that can stay with you and drive you home. The drugs and or anesthesia you receive will make it unsafe for you to drive a car. If you are using a cab or public transportation you must have a responsible adult with you.
- After your surgery you will be given an instruction sheet at the time of discharge. This information sheet will provide information regarding your burn or wound care. This sheet will also provide information regarding signs and symptoms to watch for after you are discharged.
- When you are discharged there will be a dressing that contains a slow release antibiotic. This dressing needs to stay dry and intact until you return to the clinic. Do not remove the dressing.
- You may experience some drainage. The color may be a darker brown, reddish brown or yellowish brown. This is normal.
- If needed, you can reinforce the dressing with clean dry gauze and tape. Remember, you can’t take any of the dressings away, but you can add to them.
- If the burn or wound is on your arm or leg, keep it elevated or propped up to reduce the swelling.
- Make sure you make your follow-up appointment.
- If the burn or wound starts to bleed.
- Signs of Infection:
- You develop increased pain, redness, swelling, pus, greenish discharge, or a bad odor in the burned area.
- Temperature over 101 °F (38 °C).
- You see no signs of improvement in 6 days.
Events
Resources
Research
Research Foundation
Research
More than any single trait, it is the Burn Center's emphasis on research and technology that sets us apart. In addition to providing patients with the most advanced burn care solutions available, our focus keeps us at the top of research and development company lists when new product sites are being selected. The size of our patient population alone makes us a desirable location to conduct drug trials. For the past few years, our burn team has been among the largest group of presenters at both regional and national professional meetings. More importantly, the knowledge we glean today improves the quality of treatment and care we deliver tomorrow.
Mission Statement
The Joseph M. Still Research Foundation, Inc. is a not-for-profit, private organization affiliated with the Joseph M. Still Burn Center created with the following purposes:
- To develop clinical research to improve the care of burn patients
- To develop educational programs for members of the Burn and Wound Team
- To provide assistance and teaching in burn care to under-developed countries, in response to burn disasters in particular
- To disseminate new knowledge in epidemiology and management of burn-associated injuries and wounds
- Prospective Phase II, III and IV pharmaceutical and medical device clinical trials in the following burn and wound treatment areas:
- Systemic treatment
- Anti-infectives
- Skin substitutes to treat acute burn injuries
- Supportive care modalities to reduce mortality
- Various patient and environment of care medical devices
- Observational/registry trials
- Retrospective/Outcomes clinical trials, single and multi-patient case studies
For more information about research studies at the Joseph M. Still Research Foundation, contact through the information listed below.
Joseph M. Still Research Foundation, Inc.
3675 J. Dewey Gray Circle, Suite 200-B
Augusta, GA 30909
Ph. 706.364.2966 Fax: 706.364.2878
e-mail: info@jmsresearchfoundation.org
Foundation
The BRCA Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving patient care, supporting patients and families after they have been discharged from one of our centers, and facilitating education about burn, wound and hand care throughout various medical communities.
Mission Statement
The healing and helping of patients goes far beyond the walls of our burn centers. The BRCA Foundation is committed to helping patients and their families, while continuously working to improve care throughout the world.
Our foundation was founded on three guiding principles:
- Patient Support
- Education & Scholarship
- Community Outreach
To learn more about us or find out how you can help support our mission, please email: foundation@brcacares.com
Burn Symposium
Established in 2007, the Joseph M. Still Burn Symposium is an annual gathering of medical professionals dedicated to the constant improvement of burn care in America. With sessions presented by leading experts and the availability of educational credits, the Symposium provides your company with a specific, targeted audience.
The 2020 Joseph M. Still Burn Symposium will be held March 1-2, 2020 at the Chateau Elan Resort and Winery (just north of Atlanta).
All donations to BRCA Foundation are tax deductible.