(HE-006 (RPT-003)) Healthcare Equity: A Community-based Pilot Study on Repurposing Wound Care Supplies for Underserved Populations

Jayesh Shah, MD, MHA – Adj. Assistant Professor, UIW Medical School, President Time-Oxygen Healing Concepts LLC

Introduction: Chronic wounds affect 6.5 million individuals in the United States, contributing significantly to lower limb amputations, with a limb lost to diabetes every 20 seconds globally [1, 2]. These wounds impose a significant financial burden on the healthcare system [3], particularly for uninsured or homeless populations. For example, San Antonio's homeless population increased by 7% in 2024, complicating wound care management due to limited resources and infrastructure [4, 7]. Many medical schools now incorporate street medicine programs to address these disparities [5, 8]. The Dream Donation pilot project was launched to collect unused wound care supplies from clinics, patients, and pharmaceutical representatives for redistribution to underserved populations [6].

Methods: A significant yet under-acknowledged issue in wound care is the wastage of supplies, with surplus materials often discarded after wounds heal. Recognizing this, we established a program to repurpose unused supplies, addressing two challenges: reducing environmental waste and providing essential resources to underserved clinics. Supplies were collected from clinics, patients, and pharmaceutical representatives and redistributed to facilities serving uninsured and homeless populations.

Results: Approximately $10,000 worth of supplies were collected and donated to organizations such as Corazon Ministries, Seton Home, SAM Ministries, Yanawana Herbolarios, Bexar Area Harm Reduction Coalition, and UIW's Street Medicine Program.

Discussion: Our pilot study highlights the significant need for wound care supplies among underserved populations and the potential of repurposing unused materials. Scaling this initiative through digital platforms, such as an app to connect donors with clinics, could enhance accessibility and efficiency. Collaboration with organizations like the Amazon Foundation for shipping support may enable global outreach.