Psychoeducational Screening in Pediatric Sickle Cell Disease: An Evaluation of Academic and Health Concerns in the School Environment

Abstract

This study examined parent-reported psychoeducational concerns among families of children and adolescents with sickle cell disease (SCD). A chart review was conducted to obtain psychoeducational information and associated medical data collected during routine SCD clinic visits. Analyses revealed that 45% of parents in the sample expressed significant concerns about their child's education and disease-related school accommodations. Medical variables including lower average hemoglobin level, greater disease severity, and longer hospitalizations were associated with greater educational concerns. These results highlight the need for continued attention to the educational needs of this population and provision of appropriate school accommodations.