Perspectives

CME Article: Improving Inpatient Care for Individuals with Sickle Cell Disease Using the Project ECHO Model

Authors: Rosalyn W. Stewart, MD, MS, Lauren N. Whiteman, MPH, John J. Strouse, MD, PhD, C. Patrick Carroll, MD, Sophie Lanzkron, MD, MHS

Abstract

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited red blood cell disorder that affects approximately 100,000 people in the United States.1 The hallmark of SCD is vaso-occlusive crisis, which often results in emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalization. Rapid assessment and treatment of vaso-occlusive crisis, close monitoring, social services support, and individualized care can improve outcomes.2–5 Lack of comprehensive coordinated care has led to a significant financial burden of care in terms of avoidable ED visits, acute hospitalizations, and acute care utilization. The acute care utilization rate for those with SCD is 2.67 visits per patient per year.6 Preventing avoidable utilization is possible if patients with SCD have access to knowledgeable providers as well as coordinated, comprehensive care.

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