Reflecting on her participation, Dr. Hutcheson-Donaldson describes the experience volunteering as both challenging and deeply fulfilling.
“I was originally introduced to this mission by Dr. Monique Mitchell, a local podiatrist, when I inquired about the requirements for my full medical license in the Bahamas. She told me about Barry Without Borders and asked if I would be interested in joining. Immediately, I said yes, and it has become one of the most pivotal moments of my podiatric career.”
On the ground, the team encountered a wide range of foot-related conditions, from common fungal infections to severe diabetic foot ulcers.
“Many patients in the Bahamas have chronic conditions like diabetes, which can severely affect their lower extremities. Due to limited access to specialized care, these conditions often go untreated or under-treated,” she explains. “This mission was about more than just treatment; it was also about education. Teaching patients how to care for their feet properly can prevent serious complications and ultimately save lives.”
Dr. Hutcheson-Donaldson is currently continuing her volunteer work in the Bahamas, visiting public clinics weekly to provide podiatric and wound care services for the rest of the year.
Addressing the Urgent Need for Podiatric Care in the Bahamas
The high rate of diabetes-related lower extremity amputations in the Bahamas underscores the pressing need for specialized podiatric care. Dr. Hutcheson-Donaldson is currently working on a research project to highlight these challenges and bring awareness to the critical gaps in care.
“The Bahamas faces a significant burden of diabetes and its complications. Many of the amputations we see could be prevented with early intervention and access to specialized wound care,” she notes.
Her research aims to quantify the extent of these issues and advocate for increased healthcare resources, particularly in limb preservation.
“Lower extremity amputations are one of the leading causes of disability in the Bahamas. A lack of trained podiatrists and specialized care means that many patients do not receive the preventative treatments they need. This is where advocacy and education efforts become essential.”
Barry Without Borders: A Commitment to Global Health
Barry Without Borders is an initiative by Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine designed for podiatrists, podiatry students, and residents interested in giving back to communities in need. During Barry University’s alternative spring break, volunteers provide critical medical services to underserved populations, helping bridge the gap in access to care.
And it is not just about short-term solutions; it centers around building sustainable healthcare education and training for local providers by equipping communities with the knowledge and resources to manage diabetic foot health.
One of the key challenges faced by the mission is the need for adequate medical supplies.
“We are still actively seeking donations to help with wound care supplies—specifically, items like advanced dressings, wound care kits, antiseptics, and compression bandages,” says Dr. Hutcheson-Donaldson.
“These supplies are critical for providing immediate relief and ensuring the care we offer is effective and long-lasting.”
Donations play a crucial role in sustaining these missions. Dr. Hutcheson-Donaldson states:
“Without these resources, the mission’s ability to provide the best care is limited. Every donation, no matter how small, helps us prevent amputations, improve patient outcomes, and empower local healthcare providers to continue this work.”
If You Would Like to Get Involved
ALPS strongly supports efforts like these, recognizing the importance of giving back and paying it forward in the field of limb preservation. Volunteer initiatives that expand access to care help improve patient outcomes and strengthen healthcare communities worldwide. For those interested in supporting this initiative, donations can help provide essential wound care supplies and medical resources to continue these life-changing efforts.
If you would like to learn more or contribute and pay it forward, we encourage you to reach out to Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine. You are also welcome to contact Dr. Hutcheson-Donaldson directly via email at gdhutche@gmail.com.