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Since the inception of the Sickle Cell Disease Foundation of California, the Community
Health Education Program has been an integral component of the SCDFC. As stated in the
mission of the organization, the declaration “. . . to broaden public
awareness about sickle cell disease” is observed in all programs,
services and activities provided by the Sickle Cell Disease Foundation of
California.
In order to effectively administer the Community Health Education Program, SCDFC Health
Educators participate in health and cultural fairs, make presentations to civic and
community groups, schools, pregnant minor programs as well as other areas where the at
risk population is great.
The Sickle Cell Disease Foundation of California also provides education to medical
providers and other allied health professionals. This target audience consists of any
persons who may come in contact with individuals with sickle cell disease and/or a
hemoglobin trait. Collaborations have been established with major medical facilities in
southern California, which provide medical care to persons with sickle cell disease.
Specialists in the field of sickle cell disease are utilized when necessary to provide
education and training to medical professionals.
As a state certified sickle cell counseling center since 1978, the SCDFC has met strict
guidelines and strives to maintain this certification. The utilization of state approved
literature and educational materials provide consistency throughout the community. This
adherence to state guidelines insures accuracy in the delivery of information, fosters a
sense of continuity amongst the program staff and offers credibility for the agency in the
general and medical community. Annually, the SCDFC provides sickle cell disease education
to approximately 3,500 members of the general community and 350 members of the medical
community.
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