As director of Duke’s sickle cell transition program, my practice and research focuses on treating children and adults with sickle cell disease. When I work with children, I try to focus on teaching them about their condition and how to transition successfully to living with the disease as an adult. For all patients, I focus on providing the medical, social and psychological support they need to remain healthy. My research aims to increase engagement of sickle cell patients with their own care using mobile technology. Through the use of applications, we’re hoping to help patients, specifically children, better manage their symptoms and medications. Outside of work, I have a strong interest in art. In fact, one of my undergraduate majors was biological illustration. I enjoy drawing plants, animals and people. I’ve recently started getting back into this hobby.
I am currently involved in three main areas of research: 1) novel therapeutic options for patients with sickle cell disease; 2) the transition from pediatric to adult care for sickle cell disease; and 3) the use of mobile technology to advance patient care for sickle cell disease. I have been most excited by my work on developing mobile apps that improve patient-provider communication, develop predictive algorithms and improve the medication adherence through the use of patient ‘selfies’.
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This faculty member (or a member of their immediate family) has reported outside activities with the companies or institutions listed below. This information has been reported to the health system leadership and, when appropriate, management plans are in place to address potential conflicts of interest.
