Sickle Cell Program at Smilow Cancer Hospital
The Sickle Cell Program at Smilow Cancer Hospital consists of a team of experts focused on the care of patients with sickle cell disease. The comprehensive team consists of hematologists, hospitalists, nurses, a pharmacist, a psychiatrist, social workers, and chaplains. Using a patient-centered approach, the team provides care and education for patients and families as well as health care professionals. They partner with the community to care for people with sickle cell disease and conduct research to improve the care of people living with this rare inherited blood disorder.
Our Approach
The team strives to care for patients with sickle cell disease and advance care options by building on the program’s strong foundation and using the resources of Yale, as well as the knowledge of the community. A dedicated 13-bed unit is also available to patients in need of inpatient care. This enables the team to provide continuity of care to patients.
Our Services
We offer the following services:
- Prescriptions and counseling for pain management
- Disease modifying therapy, including Hydroxyurea, Voxelotor, and L-glutamine, used to treat the underlying cause of sickle cell disease
- Blood transfusions, as needed, to reduce the risk of complications and reduce symptoms
- Attention to kidney problems, iron overload, and infectious diseases
- Referral for regular specialized eye care
- Partnerships with pediatric colleagues to offer curative therapies, including bone marrow transplant and gene therapy
