This article demonstrates effects on utilization of a clinical transformation: changing locus of care from a dedicated sickle cell day unit to an approach that “fast-tracks” patients through the emergency department (ED) into an observation unit with 24/7 access. Retrospective quantitative analyses of claims and Epic electronic medical record data for patients with sickle cell disease treated at Thomas Jefferson University (inpatient and ED) assessed effects of the clinical transformation.
Additionally, case studies were conducted to confirm and deepen the quantitative analyses. This study was approved by the Thomas Jefferson University Institutional Review Board. The quantitative analyses show significant decreases in ED and inpatient utilization following the transformation. These effects likely were facilitated by increased observation stays. This study demonstrated the impact on utilization of transformation in care (from dedicated day unit to an approach that fast-tracks patients into an observation unit). Additional case studies support the quantitative findings.
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Blood is very important to our body. There are different components that make up our blood, each serving different functions. Red blood cells supply oxygen to cells and tissues, while also helping to remove waste. White blood cells fight infectious intruders like bacteria. Platelets control blood clotting, which is vital to helping your body control a cut or an injury.
When our blood cells and platelets can’t operate efficiently, there are severe consequences for our body. Reduced blood flow and reduced oxygen in our bodies can cause weakness, fatigue, slowed growth, severe pain and other serious complications that make it difficult to go about daily life.
Usually, a blood disorder is detected in a patient by doing a blood test, such as a complete blood count (CBC). Since blood disorders are inherited, people who are considering having a child are encouraged to meet with a genetic counselor to assess risks.
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Starting college presents a unique set of stressors. Students are away from home, possibly for the first time. In somewhat unfamiliar surroundings, they must cope with a rigorous academic schedule and a new and intense social life.
If your student lives with a chronic illness like asthma or diabetes, they have the added challenge of managing their condition.
The condition is a constant even though, at any given time, a student with chronic illness may be ill or well. Your student may be quite independent when it comes to self-care; nevertheless, at college, they really will be on their own and wholly responsible for making doctor’s appointments, refilling and remembering to take prescription medication, dealing with a flare-up, and more.
Fortunately, colleges have improved their services for students living with chronic illness. Leaning on these services can help your student adjust more smoothly to campus life.
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The U.S. Department of Education’s Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a website which brings together IDEA information and resources from the Department and grantees.
The IDEA governs how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education, and related services to more than 6.5 million eligible infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities.
Infants and toddlers, birth through age 2, with disabilities and their families receive early intervention services under IDEA Part C. Children and youth ages 3 through 21 receive special education and related services under IDEA Part B.
Official website
The term "chronic conditions" may apply to a wide range of medical conditions. Traditionally, it refers to a disease that affected college students must continually mitigate against (typically with medication and/or physical therapy) for an indefinite period of time. The CDC lists stroke, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and arthritis as five of the most common chronic illnesses found among all U.S. citizens; in recent years, obesity has also been included on this list.
Other illnesses that occur less frequently but are still considered "chronic" include:
• Asthma
• Crohn's disease
• Epilepsy
• Hemophilia
• HIV/AIDS
• Hypertension
• Lupus
• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson's disease
• Ulcerative colitis
Additionally, psychological conditions like bipolar mood disorder and schizophrenia also impact college students on a chronic basis. Chronic conditions that impact daily life like blindness, deafness, or partial paralysis are classified as disabilities, not chronic illnesses.
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