Connecticut will increase access for cell and gene therapy for sickle cell disease by raising awareness and providing education to the sickle cell community, through enhanced care coordination. - Connecticut is implementing a comprehensive model to enhance access to cell and gene therapy for Medicaid members with sickle cell disease (SCD). Through a partnership with Community Health Network of Connecticut (CHNCT), funding will be provided to four clinical sites (Yale Adult SCD clinic, Yale Pediatric SCD Clinic, University of Connecticut Health Center and Connecticut Children’s Medical Center) to support care management and address health-related social needs for patients undergoing cell and gene therapy. A CBO with expertise in sickle cell disease will assist with providing education to patients and providers and support efforts to raise awareness about these therapies. Key activities within the $ 7,404,199 implementation budget include: • Awareness, Education, and Access: Develop educational materials and raise awareness about cell and gene therapy (CGT) through collaborations with a CBO and clinical sites. This includes organizing peer support from individuals who have undergone bone marrow transplantation or gene therapy. • Health-Related Social Needs (HRSN): CHNCT will oversee care coordinators to address beneficiaries’ HRSNs, such as childcare, transportation, housing and nutrition support, by maximizing Medicaid benefits and allocating grant funds for services not covered under Medicaid. • Care Coordination: Embedded care managers at each clinical site will provide on-site coordination, case management, and patient navigation services. CHNCT will support these managers and assist in resolving system-related issues and navigating Medicaid benefits. In addition, $1,294,000 in Milestone funding will support research efforts at the same four clinical sites and a CBO with expertise in SCD. This research project will enroll patients and stakeholders in Connecticut to participate in qualitative interviews and focus groups. The information gathered will be analyzed to identify the current state of care and barriers to access to care. Potential solutions will then be identified, including solutions unique to the conditions in Connecticut. The next phase of the project will determine the impact of interventions implemented.
