BHASNet Submits Recommendations to Saskatchewan Health Authority on Pain Management

BHASNet has submitted a formal set of recommendations to the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) on improving pain management for patients with sickle cell disease and other blood disorders.

The recommendations, developed in consultation with BHASNet members, focus on three key areas:

• Emergency Room Care: Recommendations for improving the ER experience for patients with sickle cell disease, including reducing wait times, ensuring access to pain management, and training staff on the unique needs of patients with SCD.
• Pain Management Education: Recommendations for patient education on pain management strategies, including non-medication approaches and self-advocacy skills.
• Continuity of Care: Recommendations for better coordination between emergency departments, primary care providers, and specialists to ensure patients receive consistent, comprehensive care.

“Patients with sickle cell disease often face significant barriers to accessing effective pain management,” said Immanuela Ezugba. “Our recommendations are based on the lived experience of our members, and we believe they will lead to meaningful improvements in care.”

BHASNet is committed to ongoing advocacy on this issue and will continue to work with the SHA and other stakeholders to ensure that the recommendations are implemented.