The 19th Annual Academy For Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia (ASCAT) Conference in October 2024, hosted by the ASCAT in partnership with the British Society of Haematology, the European Haematology Association, and ERN-EuroBloodNet (European Reference Network on Rare Hematological Diseases), brought together patients and experts from around the globe to focus on “Achieving Equitable Progress: A Call for Collaborative Action in a World of Growing Disparities.”
It was inspiring to see experts and people with lived experience come together to discuss:
- Advancements in research, treatments, and therapies for sickle cell and thalassaemia.
- The importance of a collaborative focus on addressing systemic care inequalities through joint efforts by patients, healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers.
- Transformative projects aimed at improving services for patients.
Chaired by Dr Rachel Kesse-Adu, consultant at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, it was great to hear a session focussed on the UK’s response following the APPG ‘No One’s Listening’ report.
Ella Wilson, Project Manager for the South East London Sickle Cell Improvement Programme, shared the exciting work happening in London to transform community services for people living with sickle cell disorder.
Dr. Sara Stuart-Smith from King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust presented on the ACT NOW initiative implemented across pilot sites in England, ensuring timely and appropriate care during sickle cell crises.
Additionally, Dr. Banu Kaya and Dr. Subarna Chakravorty, clinical leads of the Universal Care Plan, provided updates on expanding digital care records to improve access and care coordination.
This conference marks a powerful step forward in improving outcomes and equity in haemoglobinopathy care!
Learn more about the conference on the ASCAT website.
