Making the transition to college is often an exciting and emotional time for young adults and their families. For young people with sickle cell disease (SCD), this transition can present additional complexities as they navigate their medical care and social and emotional well-being. This guide, developed by the Health Resources & Services Administration’s Hemoglobinopathies National Coordinating Center, is designed to help young people with SCD thrive through these transitions. 

The guide outlines key questions and issues that young people with SCD need to consider as they shift from pediatric or adolescent medical care to managing their own healthcare as adults. The guide walks readers through step-by-step questions, from deciding on care providers to insurance coverage to preparing for their first healthcare visit with a new provider. Additional sections cover how to navigate college academic and non-academic accommodations and tips to create a network of support for social and emotional well-being.