NORFOLK, Va. — A new medical clinic in Norfolk will target sickle cell disease (SCD) from multiple disciplines, attempting to offer more comprehensive treatment plans that will address the many obstacles sickle cell patients face.
Sentara Health and Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences EVMS Medical Group at Old Dominion University will have the grand opening for Sentara-EVMS Comprehensive Sickle Cell Program on Wednesday, Oct. 9.
SCD is a lifelong, genetic blood disorder that produces misshapen red blood cells. The misshapen cells can hinder blood flow, which can lead to severe pain, organ damage and other complications.
The Sentara-EVMS Comprehensive Sickle Cell Program will have specialists from many disciplines in the medical world to assist with creating multifaceted treatment plans for SCD patients.
The Department of Medicine will manage the health of SCD patients and treat several medical complications that come along with SCD, including anemia, organ damage and infections.
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation will create pain relief strategies, as chronic pain is one of the most debilitating symptoms of SCD.
According to the clinic, this will involve "pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions."
Rehabilitation specialists will also help with improving mobility and function in SCD patients.
Another important branch of medicine that will be included in the center will be Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences.
"The psychological impact of living with SCD cannot be overstated," the clinic said. "Chronic pain, frequent hospitalizations and the stress of managing a lifelong illness can lead to mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder."
The approach of an interdisciplinary program such as this will provide a more well-rounded treatment plan and, hopefully, improve a patient's quality of life, the clinic said.
"As more clinics adopt this multidisciplinary approach, the future looks brighter for SCD patients, offering them the comprehensive, compassionate care they deserve," the clinic said.
