Organization of Care

Abstract

In common with other long-term conditions, living with sickle cell disease (SCD) entails a variety of clinical, psychological and social challenges for the patient and his/her carers. The usual model for care requires co-ordination by a team of specialist medical and nursing practitioners and a range of other professionals. Hospital care is needed for the management of acute complications, community support is essential for provision of psychological and social care. Some management (eg outpatient care) could be provided in either setting. Specialist centers co-ordinate care, provide annual reviews and specialist multidisciplinary clinics. They collaborate with local centers so that care can be provided close to patient's home. Hospital services include emergency care, in patient and out patient care. Community services are sometimes provided by Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Centers together with primary care. Psychology, social care and benefits advice could be provided either from the hospital service community-based services. User groups and the voluntary sector also have an important role to play.