To improve clinical outcomes for individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD), there are many considerations, including access to specialized services, continuity of care, patient education, and psychosocial support. This white paper reviews the basics of SCD, the role of health equity in care and services, and the impact of newly approved disease-modifying gene therapies. The discussion addresses three core business questions:

1. How can managed care plans optimize care treatment plans?
2. How can technology enhance care coordination and minimize avoidable costs?
3. How can incorporating a federal disease action plan and health equity framework into Medicaid managed care impact acute care utilization?