Good sickle cell care is built on six key principles that help improve patient experience, strengthen clinical practice and support better outcomes.
Building Knowledge and Confidence
Building knowledge improves clinical confidence, supports earlier recognition of complications and helps healthcare professionals provide safer, more person-centred care.
Listening and Building Trust
People living with sickle cell are experts in their own condition. Listening to their experiences, involving them in decisions and recognising their knowledge helps build trust and improve the quality of care.
Recognition and Prompt Responses
Sickle cell crises and complications can deteriorate rapidly. Recognising urgency, responding promptly and providing timely treatment can reduce complications and improve patient outcomes.
Challenging Bias & Stigma
Every patient deserves to be treated with dignity and without assumptions. Challenging bias, recognising stigma and reflecting on attitudes helps create safer, more equitable care for people living with sickle cell.
Communication and Partnering With Patients
Good communication is built on openness, respect and shared decision-making. Working in partnership with patients helps ensure care reflects both clinical expertise and lived experience.
A Commitment to Continuous Learning
Delivering high-quality sickle cell care requires ongoing learning, reflection and improvement. Regular education helps healthcare professionals maintain confidence, improve practice and deliver evidence-based care.
