who we are

Nearly 20 years ago, Mississippi’s only burn center closed its doors, leaving a void of lifesaving, life-changing care in the Magnolia State. A few years later, a nationally-renowned surgeon stepped in, starting a burn center that served residents until late 2022. When the burn center at Merit closed, it’s Medical Director – Dr. Derek Culnan, FACS – committed to continuing his mission of offering Mississippians hope through healing. Through a partnership with Baptist Medical Center and utilizing many of the staff who served as the heart and soul of Mississippi’s only burn center, Dr. Culnan is proud to helm Mississippi’s newest, yet most experienced and best prepared burn center: Mississippi Burn, Reconstruction and Hand Center at Baptist Medical Center.