Community health workers supporting emerging adults with sickle cell disease

Authors: Sadie M. Butcher, Caren Steinway, Brahadesh Sivakumar, Katherine Wu, Toyosi Oluwole, Desireé N. Williford, Sophia Jan, Symme W. Trachtenberg, Kim Smith-Whitley, Tanisha D. Belton

This study looks at the role of community health workers (CHWs) in helping adolescents and young adults with sickle cell disease transition from pediatric to adult care. Interviews with CHWs and their supervisors highlighted three main points: (1) CHWs supported the transition to adulthood for patients, (2) they built trusting relationships with patients, and (3) the role impacted CHWs personally and professionally. The study shows that CHWs play a key role in helping young people transition to adult care, and it suggests that health systems should focus on sustainable funding and support for CHW programs.