Sickle Cell Virtual Support Group Program for Adults: An Implementation Evaluation.

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Psychology
• Social Sciences

Background:

• Sickle cell disease (SCD) presents significant medical and psychosocial challenges for adults.
• Adult SCD is linked to higher morbidity, mortality, and social support deficits.
• Effective self-management strategies are crucial for adults with SCD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the implementation of a virtual support group for adults with SCD.
• To assess participant satisfaction with the virtual support group intervention.
• To explore the impact of a community-engaged intervention on self-management and social networks.

Main Methods:

• A virtual support group intervention was implemented for adults with SCD.
• An intervention parameters framework was used for evaluation.
• Content analysis of intervention parameters and summary of satisfaction scores were performed.

Main Results:

• Adult participants reported positive evaluations across all intervention parameters.
• The virtual support group was well-received by participants.
• Key social networks were established through the community-engaged intervention.

Conclusions:

• Virtual support groups are a viable and effective intervention for adults with SCD.
• Community-engaged interventions can enhance self-management in adult SCD populations.
• Virtual support fosters essential social networks for individuals managing SCD.