Identifying Educational and Resource Needs of General Internal Medicine Physicians in Sickle Cell Disease Management

Sickle cell disease involves acute and chronic complications requiring timely recognition and multidisciplinary care. General internal medicine (GIM) physicians often manage affected adults with limited exposure and few supports.

We conducted a cross-sectional web-based survey of GIM physicians assessing comfort and preferred supports.

Eighteen of approximately 85 physicians responded (21%). Common encounters included chronic pain (83%), vaso-occlusive crises (67%), and acute chest syndrome (44%), yet none reported being comfortable managing complications. Discomfort was greatest for rare complications, and peripartum and perioperative care. Limited exposure was the main driver. Preferred supports included protocols, guides, and decision tools.

Targeted tools and specialist support are urgently needed to improve care and physician comfort.

The authors have confirmed clinical trial registration is not needed for this submission.