Free Wound Care Initiative Launches for Unhoused Residents in Duluth

Duluth has launched a new initiative to provide free wound care for unhoused residents through the Chum Hope Clinic, which is currently based at the Damiano Center. Every second Monday of the month, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., volunteers from Aspirus St. Luke’s Wound Care Clinic offer walk-in services to individuals in need. This effort aims to address a significant increase in wound-related health issues among the local unhoused population.

The health and wellness coordinator at Chum, Anne Romberg, noted a troubling trend: “We’ve seen a rise in wounds amongst our population.” Two years ago, approximately three unhoused individuals required wound care each month at Chum. That figure has since escalated to around 15, largely due to the emergence of harmful substances like xylazine mixed with fentanyl or heroin, which can cause severe tissue damage.

According to Jarrod Buresh, the medical director at Aspirus St. Luke’s Wound Care, xylazine can obstruct blood flow, leading to necrosis. “When they inject it, the xylazine component gets locked up in the blood vessels,” he explained. This situation poses serious risks not only related to drug use but also includes common issues such as abscesses, pressure wounds, frostbite, and complications from unmanaged diabetes.

Community Collaboration for Health Care Access

The partnership between Chum and Aspirus St. Luke’s began during monthly meetings focused on healthcare accessibility for unhoused individuals. Maija Kaarto, the clinical supervisor at Aspirus St. Luke’s Wound Care, often provides educational sessions on general wound care within the community. Together, Buresh and Kaarto contribute about four hours monthly, caring for 10 to 12 patients each session at the Damiano Center.

Buresh emphasized the importance of building trust with patients, stating, “There’s no rush. I can take unlimited time with them.” This approach fosters a welcoming environment for those who may feel intimidated by traditional healthcare settings. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between immediate care and the long-term treatment offered at Aspirus St. Luke’s, where they see around 60 patients daily.

Romberg highlighted the challenges faced by the unhoused: “Most of these folks are just in survival mode every day.” They often struggle to attend appointments, making the pop-up clinic’s location at the Damiano Center crucial for removing transportation and social stigma barriers.

Addressing Critical Health Concerns

The implications of untreated wounds in this vulnerable population are severe. Left unaddressed, diabetic wounds can lead to amputations, while venous diseases can result in chronic infections. Buresh warned, “A diabetic foot ulcer can turn into a surgical emergency,” underscoring the importance of early intervention.

Wound care typically involves procedures such as debridement, where dead or infected tissue is removed to promote healing. Patients receive topical anesthetics to ease discomfort during treatment. “My favorite moments are when a patient expresses how much their life has improved because you’ve healed, or are on the way to healing, the wound that they struggled with,” Kaarto remarked.

Chum’s initiative has received a $5,000 grant aimed at creating wound care kits, assisted by medical students from the University of Minnesota Duluth. Donations are welcome, including essential supplies like gauze, dressings, and adult-sized shoes, which are vital for the program’s success.

Romberg expressed her passion for the mission, saying, “It’s kind of like a calling for me.” The collaboration between Chum and Aspirus St. Luke’s is a significant step toward providing essential healthcare for those often overlooked in the community. As word spreads about the availability of free wound care, the initiative is expected to grow, fostering a more supportive and healthy environment for Duluth’s unhoused residents.