If sickle cell patients seem to be a
problem, the real problem may be the way their pain is being treated, and it’s
easily solved by switching from short to long-acting narcotics. The essence of
this 1992 article indicates that access to information, Emergency Room
procedures and the ongoing education of medical professionals are essential to
quality of life for those facing SCD.Having access to information can only make a difference, when the
necessary protocols are actively used.Read More.
Sickle Cell / Abnormal Hemoglobin Program:
Our education program provides tools and resources to local schools, through presentations, health fairs, outreach events and intentional efforts to build awareness. The Martin Center is committed to reaching the public to ensure that everyone is aware of the health challenges, treatment opportunities, support services and best treatment practices of Sickle Cell Disease.
An on-site laboratory is available for early detection, which include screenings, evaluation and referrals for those who test positive for abnormal hemoglobin disease/trait. Newborns identified with an abnormal hemoglobin by the ISDH Newborn Screening Program are provided with follow up services. Counseling / ongoing support are for individuals with Sickle Cell / abnormal hemoglobin disease.
Work is performed in an office setting with frequent travel to screen and educate on outings for churches, schools, community centers, etc. Martin Center has developed relationships with with Sickle Cell / Hemmoglobinopathy programs and human service agencies throughout the state of Indiana. There are 92 counties in Indiana, and Martin Center, Inc. is responsible for services in 86 of those counties.
For the clients in other counties, staff will visit with them in their homes at least once a year and are available on an as-needed basis. Our staff checks with all clients by phone on a regular basis. For those in Marion County, a home visit or hospital visit is regular, sometimes 3-4 times a year, depending on the client’s needs. Work hours are normally 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday thru Friday, with occasional work during the evenings and/or on weekends.
The Food Pantry provides supplemental food, commodities and gatorade through on-site distribution for our Sickle Cell Disease and abnormal hemoglobin client. Clients that exhibit Sickle Cell Trait are an important part of our community. Both trait and disease clients are served as resources allow.
Often times our disease clients cannot work a full-time job due to their illness. Many of them are on disability or have limited funds that prohibit them from meeting their needs. Therefore, it is necessary for Martin Center to assist with medication that is not covered by Medicaid, rent and utilities. Their efforts in seeking assistance may be difficult without Martin Center, Inc.
Genetic counseling is available for anyone testing positive for Sickle Cell Disease, Sickle Cell Trait, or related blood conditions. This support program includes the education of family members and friends to better understand the needs of persons living with Sickle Cell. Monthly support meetings and Martin Center sponsored activities are available for all Sickle Cell clients and family members.
Provides public education and awareness on blood pressure cholesterol, blood sugar, STD/Syphilis. The program educates the public about the prevention and treatment of diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, and STD/Syphilis. In addition, for our early detection services of these chronic diseases, an on-site laboratory is available. This is provided for screening and evaluation for those who are at risk. Follow-up and referral services for those above chronic disease, and STD/Syphilis, is our supportive service that promotes good general physical health. Work hours are normal 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday thru Friday, with occasional work during the evenings and/or weekend. Occasional travels to Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Morgan, Johnson, Madison, and Shelby counties.
Prevention and early intervention are key factors in health care. Martin Center is commited to providing access to quality health screenings for the communities we serve. Whether it’s a school, church, apartment complex or business, our staff will provide on-site screenings for Sickle Cell Disease (and blood related conditions). Diabetes, Hypertension, and High Cholesterol. Appointments are also available for individuals or groups at our center.
“My blood is hemoglobin AS, what does that mean?” “Am I at-risk for Diabetes?” “Where can I find a doctor who specializes in Sickle Cell Disease?”
Our Health Evaluation and Guidance program will answer any questions you may have about your test results. Knowing your health status is the first step towards a healthy lifestyle. After you initial assessment, recommendations and referrals are made to health care resources.
Sickle Cell Disease: “Is Sickle Cell contagious? What is a Sickle Cell Crisis?”
This program promotes understanding of Sickle Cell Disease (and related blood conditions) through free community education. Our health educator, nurse and genetics counselor will explain how it is inherited, what the symptoms are, and dispel some of the common myths about Sickle Cell.
HIV / AIDS: Sometimes it’s hard enough to know the right questions to ask about HIV infection and AIDS. Getting the right answers can be equally difficult. Our program is designed to answer the tough questions surrounding HIV / AIDS.
The Martin Center, Inc. provides limited Financial Assistance to our clients and families that are impacted by Sickle Cell Disease. The maximum award is $150 per family/per year, based on unrestricted fundraising proceeds and financial support. Each year the Martin Center faces the challenge that the needs are greater than the resources that are available. During these difficult economic times, more and more families are in need of support. Become a part of the Martin Center community and support the annual sickle cell walk, fall dinner, annual donation drive and the United Way of Central Indiana. Increased support for the Martin Center, Inc. means that more support is available for the Financial Assistance fund. New guidelines are available by contacting the center today.
