Sickle Cell Care

At Henry Ford Health, we believe every sickle cell warrior deserves care that’s as strong and resilient as they are. Our program is designed to provide complete, coordinated, and compassionate support -- helping adults living with sickle cell disease take control of their health and live life to the fullest.

We understand that moving from pediatric to adult care can feel overwhelming. That’s why we partner with some of the largest pediatric sickle cell programs to make the process seamless. Our team helps you gain confidence, take charge of your health, and navigate adulthood with the tools and knowledge to thrive.

At every visit, you’re not just a patient -- you’re part of the team. During your comprehensive care clinic visits, you’ll work directly with your providers to build and update a care plan that reflects your goals, needs, and lifestyle. We’re here to listen, support, and guide you every step of the way.

When pain flares up, you shouldn’t have to wait. Our Acute Care Clinic provides same-day or next-day appointments for pain or hydration needs -- helping you get relief quickly while avoiding unnecessary emergency room visits or hospital stays.

Living with chronic pain doesn’t mean living without hope. Our Comprehensive Pain Clinic offers a wide range of evidence-based and holistic options -- including medications, infusions, injections, physical therapy, nutrition support, counseling, and integrative therapies like yoga. Our goal is to help you manage pain safely and effectively, so you can focus on living your best life.

Your health is connected — and so is our care. When you need additional support, we coordinate with Henry Ford Health specialists in nephrology, pulmonology, orthopedics, and other areas to ensure you have access to the full spectrum of expert care under one system.

During your visit, you’ll connect with our specialized care team, which may include:

• Hematologists and advanced practice providers -- experts in sickle cell disease who guide your medical care
• Dietitians -- help you meet nutritional needs and optimize energy
• Social workers -- support emotional well-being and connect you with community resources
• Community health workers -- guide you through care, appointments, and resources
• Pain specialists -- develop safe, personalized pain management strategies

This team collaborates to create a care plan tailored to your unique needs, lifestyle, and goals.

During your visit, we focus on understanding your overall health, disease history, and current concerns. You can expect:

• Review of your medical history and prior treatments
• Assessment of pain patterns, complications, and organ health
• Lab work and vital assessments to track your condition
• Discussion of hydration, nutrition, and lifestyle strategies
• Review of any current medications or therapies and adjustments if needed

Together, we’ll create a comprehensive, individualized care plan that may include:

• Pain management strategies, including acute and chronic approaches
• Preventive care recommendations and health screenings
• Lifestyle and nutrition guidance
• Referrals to specialists as needed (e.g., nephrology, pulmonology, orthopedics)
• Education and self-management tools to empower you to take control of your health

Your care doesn’t end when you leave the clinic. Our team ensures continuous support through: 

• Regular follow-up visits to update your care plan
• Access to acute care services for pain or hydration needs
• Guidance from our care team between appointments

We want every visit to leave you confident, informed, and empowered in your journey as a sickle cell warrior.

An acute pain crisis occurs when sickled red blood cells block blood flow, causing severe pain and potential complications. Every warrior experiences pain differently, and episodes can vary in frequency and intensity. Recognizing the signs early and receiving timely care is key to preventing complications and improving quality of life.

Our Acute Care Clinic is designed specifically for adults living with sickle cell disease. As part of our program, you can access:

• Rapid access to care with same-day or next-day appointments for established warriors
• Expert pain management, including medications, hydration therapy, and individualized care plans
• Support from a multidisciplinary team, including hematologists, advanced practice providers, nurses, and pain specialists
• Holistic approaches such as physical therapy, nutrition guidance, and counseling to support overall well-being

By receiving care in our clinic instead of the emergency room, warriors experience faster relief, coordinated care, and reduced hospitalizations.

Every warrior’s experience with pain is unique. During your visits, our team works with you to create a personalized pain management plan that addresses your specific needs, preferences, and lifestyle. This plan may include:

• Medications tailored to your symptoms
• Hydration and infusion therapy
• Guidance on managing triggers and preventing crises
• Education on self-management strategies and when to seek care

We understand that pain crises due to sickle cell disease can be frightening and disruptive. Our clinic offers:

• Compassionate, experienced providers who understand sickle cell disease
• Timely, coordinated care that keeps your health on track
• A safe, supportive environment where your concerns are heard and your sickle cell care is personalized

Acute pain crises don’t have to control your life. By partnering with our team, you can manage pain more effectively, reduce emergency visits, and protect your overall health. We’re here to support you every step of the way, helping you live boldly, comfortably, and confidently as a sickle cell warrior.