Finalist
Inspiring and Empowering the Next Generation of Sickle Cell HEROES
by Nucleus Global, an Inizio Company on behalf of Novo Nordisk Health Care AG
Summary of work
People living with sickle cell disease (SCD) face high mortality rates, patient burdens and significant healthcare disparities globally. Poor disease awareness, diagnostic challenges and racial and socioeconomic inequalities contribute to variable quality and access to care. Emerging treatments could transform lives. Empowered and educated haematologists are needed to advance evidence-based SCD care for all patients.
HEROES is a bespoke 3-day programme designed to educate and inspire the next generation of haematologists to provide care and support people with SCD deserve. Patient interviews provided an understanding of the high burden and challenges people with SCD face, ensuring a programme driven by patient needs. SCD experts from high-prevalence regions provided expert opinions and knowledge on treatments, and the regional and social challenges patients face. Regionally tailored plenaries and interactive workshops emphasised holistic patient views and SCD experiences to improve patient care outcomes.
HEROES has made an unparalleled and transformative impact on the SCD community in high-prevalence regions by strengthening SCD knowledge and awareness, and confidence of healthcare professionals (HCPs) to improve patient care.
“Tanzania has fewer than 30 practising haematologists serving a ~60 million people population. HEROES will help meet many unmet needs to improve SCD patient care.” – Dr Ally (Faculty), Tanzania
Judges’ comments
Nucleus Global and Novo Nordisk have created an impactful initiative to raise awareness for such an important disease. The action-focused nature stood out to the judges – the team really understood what it was trying to achieve and was focused on having a measurable impact on clinical practice. The programme was inclusive and co-created throughout, and the pledges concept was excellent.
