Hina Patel Foundation

The inspiration for a comprehensive Sickle Cell Disease center came when Dr. Kannar, Chief District Health Officer-Navsari, mentioned how a young patient had died from a multiple organ failure during pregnancy. Dr. Kannar stated that he was “shaken up” by the young women’s death and “did not want to just sign death certificates, but rather do something to prevent these types of tragedies.” His vision became reality when the facility was constructed under the guidance of Dr. Yazdi Italia and Bhavesh Raicha of Valsad Blood Bank, Government of Gujarat and Hina Patel Foundation. The center opened to the public on June 19th, 2016, world sickle cell day.

The center is the first comprehensive sickle cell center in Gujarat. It offers screenings for newborn babies, prenatal screenings, patient counseling, 24-hour emergency services, pain-crisis management, oxygen therapy, Hydroxyurea management, blood transfusions, laboratory work, plus x-ray and ultrasound services. The center is staffed by primary care doctors, nurses, and sickle cell counselors. A hematologist visits the center twice each month to manage patients who are on Hydroxyurea, the only medication approved to reduce sickle cell pain crises. The center has the ability to refer patients to outside sub specialists if necessary.

The center is staffed by primary care doctors, nurses, and sickle cell counselors.

The facility also provides other services and promises to have a huge impact in the region. Dr. Jagdish Patel, the doctor in charge of the center, recently announced that meals will be provided for all admitted patients in Rumla. While it may seem normal to provide meals for admitted patients per practices in the USA, such is not the case in India. The meals provided by the center offer hope and help keep patients strong while going through treatment. With over 1500 registered Sickle Cell Disease patients within 30 miles of the Rumla center, the facility will be well-utilized. Dr. Kannar’s realized dream will save lives and help to reduce the suffering of countless patients and their families.