Services

The Ohio Sickle Cell and Health Association (OSCHA) provides resources for individuals and families affected with the Sickle Cell Disease.  Families affected by sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait are encouraged to contact the OSCHA for  information regarding the services provided at (614) 228-0157

                               

 

Education

                               

Through various media campaigns and outreach initiatives, OSCHA seeks to educate the Ohio community about the risks and complications pertaining to Sickle Cell Disease.  Please contact our staff for information on local and statewide outreach initiatives.

                               

 

Testing

 

In the state of Ohio all newborn children are tested for sickle cell disease or trait. Detecting sickle cell trait is important for couples who want to have children and who may be carriers of sickle cell trait.  To have the disease, a person must inherit a gene for the disease from both parents.

 

  • A person with sickle cell disease has two abnormal hemoglobin S genes
  • A person with sickle cell trait has only one of the problem hemoglobin S genes and no symptoms, or only mild ones 

 

OSCHA provides free testing for specific populations in the state.  Please contact us for information on testing

 

 

Counseling

 

Counselors are available to provide professional guidance on sickle cell related topics including:

 

  • discussing the likelihood, based on test results, that the couple will have a child with a sickle cell disease
  • discussing what problems sickle cell disease may cause and other health related topics

 

Support

 

OSCHA provides various support services including educational scholarships, mentoring and emergency support services for affected families.  Affiliate support groups for affected families are also available throughout the state of Ohio.  Please contact OSCHA for information on the support services provided.

 

 

Referral

 

Medical referral services are provided for testing locations, physicians, and counselors.     Please contact us for additional referrals to assist with overall quality of living when dealing with Sickle Cell related complications

                               

 

Advocacy

 

OSCHA is a continued advocate for legislature that supports issues related to the sickle cell disease.  Along with initiatives to raise awareness we urge community members to help us influence elected officials to support legislation that will find a cure and combat the sickle cell disease.  Visit the Advocacy page for current initiatives.

 

 

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