Blake R. Boggess, DO, FAOASM, FAMSSM, FAAFP, professor of Orthopaedics and Family Medicine, and Community Health at Duke University, has dedicated much of his career to advancing medical care locally and internationally. With a particular focus on sports medicine, musculoskeletal ultrasound, and regenerative medicine, Dr. Boggess’s work has touched the lives of thousands of patients around the globe. From providing essential medical care in rural Ghana to advancing ultrasound education in multiple countries, his efforts exemplify a commitment to service and innovation in healthcare.
A Commitment to Global Medical Missions
Dr. Boggess’s journey into international medical missions began in 2011 when he first traveled to Africa. Since then, he has made nine trips to the continent, often accompanied by his wife, Amelia, and various learners and colleagues from Duke University. His four children have also been involved, traveling with him on mission trips and learning firsthand the importance of serving others in underserved regions. Through these missions, Dr. Boggess has provided medical care and helped teach and mentor the next generation of healthcare professionals.
One of the most impactful parts of his international work has been his involvement with the “Ghana Make A Difference” (GMAD) program. GMAD operates a children’s home for children who have been rescued from trafficking on Lake Volta, orphans, and children with special medical needs who have been abandoned. Dr. Boggess has participated in medical missions twice a year through GMAD, providing medical care, ultrasound triage, and health education in rural clinics and hospitals. During these trips, he often treats over 200 patients daily as part of a multispecialty team, bringing much-needed medical services to communities that lack access to primary healthcare.
“It is always humbling to see the resilience and hope in the patients we care for,” says Dr. Boggess. “These missions are a reminder of the importance of healthcare as a basic human right and the difference that compassionate care can make.”
In addition to his work with GMAD, Dr. Boggess has significantly contributed to medical education in Ghana and Uganda. With Duke University's support, he has taught ultrasound to clinicians and medical staff, enhancing their ability to diagnose and treat various conditions. Additionally, he has facilitated the donation of surplus medical supplies and decommissioned equipment, such as ultrasound machines, which continue to support healthcare in these regions.
Advancing Sports Medicine Globally
Dr. Boggess’s passion for sports medicine has also taken him to countries worldwide. Since 2011, he has been an integral part of the medical team at the World University Games, providing sports medicine services to athletes from diverse backgrounds. His experience in the field has informed his current work to develop a sports medicine program in Tanzania, where there is currently no specialized training or services for sports injuries.
“We’re working to establish a sustainable sports medicine infrastructure in East Africa, focusing on education and providing resources to local healthcare providers,” Dr. Boggess explains. “The goal is to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of sports injuries and enhance the overall health of athletes in the region.”
Ultrasound Education and Research
Dr. Boggess is a recognized leader in musculoskeletal ultrasound, a technique that has revolutionized how clinicians diagnose and treat musculoskeletal disorders. Over the years, he has directed over 38 ultrasound courses and educational programs worldwide, including in the U.S., Cuba, China, Taiwan, South Korea, Uganda, and Ghana. His work in ultrasound education has empowered healthcare providers in developed and developing countries to improve their diagnostic accuracy and provide more effective care for musculoskeletal conditions.
In addition to his educational efforts, Dr. Boggess is a principal investigator for the MILES (Multicenter trial of stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis) study, a randomized trial comparing various treatments for knee osteoarthritis. This study, which focuses on the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from bone marrow, adipose tissue, and umbilical cord, has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of osteoarthritis, providing patients with more effective, non-invasive options for pain management and joint regeneration.
“My research aims to improve patient outcomes by exploring regenerative therapies, such as stem cell treatments, which hold promise for those suffering from musculoskeletal conditions,” Dr. Boggess states. “We are at the forefront of a new era in orthopedics, where we can offer patients solutions beyond traditional surgery and medication.”
A Legacy of Service and Innovation
Throughout his career, Dr. Boggess has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes through education, research, and direct patient care. Whether he is providing life-saving medical services in Africa, advancing the field of sports medicine, or pioneering new treatments for osteoarthritis, Dr. Boggess’s work reflects his dedication to patient care and improving global health.
As a leader in academic medicine and international healthcare, Dr. Boggess inspires his colleagues, learners, and patients. His work in sports medicine, musculoskeletal ultrasound, and regenerative medicine has significantly impacted the communities he serves. It paves the way for future innovations that will shape the future of healthcare.
Dr. Boggess’s story is a testament to the power of service and the transformative role medical professionals can play in local and global communities. His contributions to healthcare education, medical missions, and cutting-edge research will continue to leave a lasting impact for years.