Importance of Patient-Provider Concordance and Sickle Cell Disease

Importance of Patient-Provider Concordance and Sickle Cell Disease

Alvin Sherman Library

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary blood disorder that affects millions of people worldwide and approximately 100,000 individuals in the United States, with a disproportionate impact on African American communities. The disease is characterized by abnormally shaped red blood cells that restrict blood flow, leading to chronic pain, organ damage, and reduced life expectancy. While medical advances such as hydroxyurea therapy, bone marrow transplantation, and emerging gene therapies have improved disease management, many patients continue to experience barriers in receiving effective and equitable care. One factor that may influence patient outcomes is patient-provider concordance, defined as shared characteristics such as race, gender, language, or cultural background between a patient and their healthcare provider. This study explores how patient-provider concordance may influence treatment experiences and health outcomes among individuals diagnosed with sickle cell disease. The proposed review examines existing literature on concordance in healthcare relationships and compares outcomes in settings where concordance is present versus traditional care models without this alignment. Particular attention is given to how improved communication, trust, and cultural understanding between patients and providers may affect treatment adherence, satisfaction with care, and overall health management. Understanding this relationship is especially important given the persistent healthcare disparities faced by populations most affected by SCD. By synthesizing current evidence, this review aims to highlight whether strengthening patient-provider relationships through concordance could serve as a complementary strategy to medical treatments. Ultimately, the findings may inform future clinical practices, healthcare workforce diversity initiatives, and policies aimed at improving equitable care for individuals living with sickle cell disease.