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About Us

Finding Inspiration in Every Turn

In the US, inadequate infrastructure and provider shortages have challenged adult sickle cell disease healthcare. Patients transitioning from pediatric care face disparities due to unprepared medical professionals and complex social factors. The VCU Adult Sickle Cell Medical Home is dedicated to reshaping comprehensive care for adults with chronic conditions. 

Our Story

In the realm of US healthcare, the adult sickle cell disease landscape faced challenges – ailing infrastructure, sparse providers, and a transition from pediatric care. This vulnerable group encountered disparities during this pivotal life phase, burdening hospitals and lives. In response, the VCU Adult Sickle Cell Medical Home underwent transformative expansion in 2018. With dedicated teamwork, it tackled the Institute for Healthcare Improvement's Triple Aim, achieving improved patient experiences, enhanced population health, and lowered healthcare costs. By introducing innovative interventions like team case management and personalized oversight, the program showcases a promising model for chronic disease care. Supported by VCU and driven by compassion, this initiative aims to inspire excellence in adult chronic patient care, solidifying its position as a pioneering national leader.

Meet The Team

Wally Smith

Wally R Smith, MD

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Professor & Medical Director

Thokozeni Lipato

Thokozeni Lipato, MD

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Infusion Center Medical Director

Shirley_Johnson Headshot

Shirley Johnson, LSW, BS

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Program Manager

Daniel Sop heeadshot

Daniel Sop, MS

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Sr. Research Scientist 

India Sisler

India Y Sisler, MD

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Clinical Director Pediatric Hematology & Oncology

Jennifer Newlin

Jennifer Newlin, MHS, PA-c

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Certified Physician Assistant 

Mica Ferlis

Mica Ferlis, ACNP

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Acute Care Nurse Practitioner

chelsea snead

Chelsea Snead, FNP

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Family Nurse Practitioner

emmanuel ofosu agyei

Emmanuel Ofosu Agyei, FNP

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Family Nurse Practitioner

El-Amin_Nadirah

Nadirah El-Amin, DO, MPH

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Assistant professor

Kate Osborne

Kate Osborne, BS, RN

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Registered Nurse

Rachel Walls

Rachel Walls, LCSW

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Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Esther Eom

Esther Eom, PharmD

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Clinical Specialty Pharmacist

Yue May Zhang

Yue May Zhang, MS

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Research Assistant - Biostatistician

Raven Hines

Raven Hines, BS, CHES

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Transition Coordinator

Marla Brannon

Marla Brannon, BSW

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Patient Navigator

Stefanie Vaughan-Sams

Stefani Vaughan-Sams

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Patient Navigator

Katrina Dalton headshot

Katrina Dalton, BA

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Patient Navigator

Benjamin Jaworowski

Benjamin Jaworowski, BS

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Business Analyst 

Austin Hardy

Austin Hardy, CPHT

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Reimbursement Specialist

Haylee Hartzog

Haylee Hartzog, MSW

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Social Worker 

Our Annual Reports

2018 Sickle Cell Disease Medical Home Annual Report
2019 Sickle Cell Disease Medical Home Annual Report
2020-2022 Sickle Cell Disease Medical Home Annual Report
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