WHEREAS:
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder affecting more than 100,000 Americans and millions of people worldwide; and
WHEREAS:
One in every 365 infants nationwide is born with sickle cell disease, requiring treatment; and
WHEREAS:
Early diagnosis of sickle cell disease allows for prompt and effective emergency treatment; and
WHEREAS:
Individuals with sickle cell anemia are often wrongly perceived as drug-seeking or uncooperative in the emergency room; and
WHEREAS:
Early detection helps emergency providers understand the patient’s condition and consult a specialist when needed; and
WHEREAS:
The state of Oregon has included sickle cell hemoglobinopathies in its newborn bloodspot screening panel; and
WHEREAS:
The absence of standardized emergency room procedures for managing sickle cell crises lowers survival rates and increases the risk of long-term harm.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
That emergency room protocols be established by frontline health care professionals to ensure all patients experiencing a sickle cell crisis receive timely and appropriate care; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
That clear public notifications regarding the new protocol shall be displayed in the emergency room; and
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:
That AFSCME will work with Congress and state legislatures to enact legislation similar to Oregon House Bill 2940, which was passed by the legislature in 2025.
SUBMITTED BY:
Tina Turner-Morfitt, Vice President and Delegate
AFSCME Retiree Chapter 75
Oregon