WORKSHOP FOR REVISING THE NATIONAL SICKLE CELL GUIDELINES, DEVELOPING SICKLE LONGTUDINAL REGISTER, CLINICAL CHART, AND PATIENT PASSPORT IS UNDERWAY AT RIDAR HOTEL, MUKONO.

Overview of the Workshop on National Sickle Cell Guidelines The ongoing workshop for the review of the National Sickle Cell Guidelines, which began on March 10 and will run until March 14, is taking place at Ridar Hotel in Mukono. This event has brought together a diverse team of specialists and advocates from across Uganda, all focused on improving the management and care of sickle cell disease (SCD) in the country. The workshop was officially opened by Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, the Minister of Health and Lira City Woman Member of Parliament. Dr. Aceng has been a passionate advocate for sickle cell disease awareness and management over the past decade. Her commitment to this cause has been instrumental in driving significant changes within Uganda’s healthcare system regarding SCD. During her opening remarks, Dr. Aceng highlighted several key achievements in combating sickle cell disease in Uganda: 1. Establishment of Regional Centers: The country now boasts ten regional centers of excellence dedicated to sickle cell care. 2. Sample Points: There are close to 210 sample points across Uganda that facilitate testing and diagnosis for sickle cell disease. 3. Advocacy and Training: Dr. Aceng emphasized the importance of advocacy, commitment, training, and unity among stakeholders involved in sickle cell management. These developments reflect a concerted effort to improve healthcare services related to sickle cell disease, ensuring that patients receive timely diagnosis and appropriate care. Dr. Charles Kiyaga, the national sickle cell coordinator, addressed the necessity of having comprehensive guidelines in place for managing sickle cell disease effectively. He outlined several critical aspects: • Supportive Care: The guidelines are intended to provide a framework for supportive care that addresses both physical and psychological needs of patients. • Improved Diagnosis: Establishing standardized protocols will enhance diagnostic accuracy and ensure that patients receive appropriate treatment based on their specific needs. • Management Strategies: The guidelines will include evidence-based management strategies that healthcare providers can implement to improve patient outcomes. The workshop represents a significant step forward in addressing the challenges associated with sickle cell disease in Uganda. By bringing together experts and advocates, it aims to refine existing guidelines, develop a longitudinal register for tracking patient data, create clinical charts for better management practices, and establish a patient passport system that facilitates continuity of care.

2025-03-12