Neuropsychology Services
The Role of Neuropsychology in Sickle Cell Care at UI Health
At UI Health, we recognize that sickle cell disease (SCD) affects not only the body but also the brain and mental health. That's why our comprehensive sickle cell clinic integrates neuropsychology services to provide specialized care addressing both the physical and cognitive challenges of SCD.
What Is Neuropsychology and Why Is It Important in Sickle Cell Disease?
Neuropsychology is the study of how brain function impacts behavior, thinking, memory, and emotions. In adults with SCD, cognitive difficulties — such as problems with memory, attention, and processing speed — can occur due to complications like strokes or problems with blood flow in the brain. Additionally, many individuals with SCD experience psychological and psychosocial challenges, including anxiety and depression, which can worsen disease outcomes and impact overall quality of life and ability to function at their best day-to-day.
Understanding these cognitive and emotional factors is essential because they influence how patients manage their health, adhere to treatment, and cope with pain crises.
How Neuropsychology Services Are Integrated at UI Health
Our neuropsychology team works alongside hematologists and other specialists during routine sickle cell clinic visits. Patients undergo comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations that include clinical interviews, cognitive testing, and personalized feedback sessions that provide recommendations about how to optimize your cognitive and psychological health.
This integrated approach helps identify cognitive impairments and psychological symptoms early, allowing us to tailor treatment recommendations that improve daily functioning and quality of life.
Impact on Pain Crises and Healthcare Utilization
It is well known that neuropsychological factors in SCD impact health and medical care. Research by our group, including a study involving 144 adults with sickle cell disease, has shown that patients who receive neuropsychological evaluations experience fewer emergency department visits related to pain crises. This suggests that neuropsychology services help patients better manage pain and reduce acute healthcare needs.
At UI Health, our integrated care model aims to:
- Enhance treatment compliance through tailored cognitive and behavioral strategies
- Improve overall well-being by addressing mental health alongside physical health
- Provide accommodations for work and school
- Decrease acute pain episodes requiring emergency room visits
- Lower healthcare costs by reducing frequent hospital admissions
Partnering With You for Comprehensive Care
By incorporating neuropsychology into sickle cell care, UI Health provides a holistic treatment approach. Our goal is to empower patients with the tools and support needed to manage their condition effectively and improve long-term outcomes.
Request An Appointment
If you or a loved one has sickle cell disease and wants to learn more about neuropsychology services at UI Health, please contact our clinic to schedule an evaluation.
