NASHVILLE, Tenn. September is Sickle Cell Awareness Month, and PCORI took the opportunity to provide an update on PCORI-funded projects that focus on the nation’s most common genetic blood disorder.
Among the projects mentioned in the group's blog was the Tennessee Sickle Cell Disease Network Project, which is building a network for sickle cell patients and their caregivers to connect with peers across Tennessee. The project -- led by CERC associate director Velma Murry, PhD -- received a Eugene Washington PCORI Engagement Award, intended to bring more patients, caregivers, clinicians and other healthcare stakeholders into the research process.
"The Tennessee Sickle Cell Disease Network offers social support, as well as increased access to education, medical care and opportunities to engage in research with the help of community ambassadors," PCORI's blog stated. "Health fairs, hospitals and community centers and social media have spread the word about the project, especially within the African American community."
About the Meharry-Vanderbilt Alliance
Founded in 1999, the Alliance bridges the institutions of Meharry Medical College and Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Its mission is to enrich learning and advance clinical research in three primary areas -- community engagement, interprofessional education and research -- by developing and supporting mutually beneficial partnerships between Meharry Medical College, Vanderbilt University Medical Center and the communities they serve. Through community engagement, the Alliance serves a large community of stakeholders including surrounding universities and colleges, community organizations, faith-based outlets and community health centers. Its interprofessional education enhances students' interdisciplinary understanding and improves patient outcomes through integrated care. The research conducted provides access to experienced grant writers and materials supporting the grant application process and facilitates grant-writing workshops.
