Social Work
Social Work in Sickle Cell Care at UI Health
At UI Health, we understand that living with sickle cell disease (SCD) involves more than just managing physical symptoms; it affects every part of life. That is why our approach to care is holistic and patient-centered.
Our dedicated social worker is a key member of the Sickle Cell Care Team, providing vital support to patients and families as they navigate the emotional, social, and practical challenges that can come with a chronic illness. We are here to provide support every step of the way.
Support That Goes Beyond Medical Treatment
Sickle cell disease can touch all areas of a person’s life — school, work, relationships, mental health, finances, and more. Our social work services are designed to help you manage these realities so you can focus on what matters most: your health, your goals, and your quality of life.
Whether you are newly diagnosed, transitioning into adult care, or living with long-term complications, our social worker is here to provide compassionate, individualized support tailored to your needs.
How Social Work Can Support You
Emotional Support
- Offering a safe, confidential space to discuss emotional concerns, life stressors, and mental health challenges.
- Sharing evidence-based tools and strategies to promote emotional well-being.
- Facilitating referrals to licensed mental health professionals for support with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and other emotional or psychological challenges — whether formally diagnosed or not.
- Helping you and your loved ones develop effective coping strategies to handle the ups and downs of chronic illness.
Care Coordination
- Assisting with preparation for appointments, procedures, and follow-up care.
- Clarifying care plans and helping patients understand medical recommendations.
- Coordinating communication between patients, providers, and other care team members to ensure continuity and clarity.
- Supporting completion of required documentation for school and workplace accommodations (e.g., ADA forms, medical leave, parking placard, disability ID card).
- Acting as a liaison to advocate on your behalf and ensure your needs and preferences are heard and respected.
Resource Navigation
- Connecting patients and families to practical resources including transportation, financial aid, housing programs, food assistance, and more.
- Helping to navigate systems such as disability benefits, Medicaid, public aid, and state or city services.
- Assisting with understanding and completing paperwork for social services, community programs, and other support options suited to your circumstances.
Education & Advocacy
- Enhancing understanding of your care plan and offering guidance on how to manage sickle cell day-to-day.
- Providing health literacy tools and tailored education to empower patients and families to make informed decisions.
- Helping you become a strong advocate for your own health — in medical settings, schools, workplaces, and the community.
- Stepping in with professional advocacy when needed to ensure you receive appropriate care.
Support for Families & Caregivers
- Offering guidance and emotional support to parents, guardians, and caregivers of both pediatric and adult patients.
- Providing resources and educational materials to help family members better understand the complexities of sickle cell disease.
- Supporting families in navigating caregiving responsibilities and accessing respite services when needed.
- Holding dedicated office hours for non-urgent needs that arise outside of regular clinic visits.
Your Partner in Whole-Person Care
At UI Health, our social worker is not just part of your care team — she is a partner in your journey. We are committed to supporting you as a whole person, not just as a patient. By addressing the social, emotional, psychological, and financial aspects of care, we help you take control of your health and live a fuller, more empowered life.
If you or a loved one receives care for sickle cell disease at UI Health, you have access to social work services. Speak with your Sickle Cell Care Team to get connected.
OluFisayo (Fisayo) Awoniyi, MSW, LSW
Medical Social Worker – Adult & Pediatric Sickle Cell Care
Office of Diversity & Community Health Equity
Ambulatory and Community Social Work
University of Illinois Hospital & Clinics
1740 W. Taylor Street, Chicago, IL 60612
Direct: 312.996.1785
Sickle Cell Clinic: 312.996.2720
Fax: 312.996.0022
Email: Oawoni2@uic.edu
