This is monumental news for the SCD community in the State of Maryland! Legislation concerning student sickle cell disease management programs in public and nonpublic schools was passed on May 8, 2018. With the law now in place, The Department and the Maryland Department of Health will develop guidelines for employees to utilize in the management of a student’s sickle cell disease while the student is on the premises of a public or nonpublic school during school hours and at school-sponsored activities, in collaboration with individuals who have expertise, special skill, or knowledge derived from training or experience in the care and management of sickle cell disease.
On or before July 1, 2019, a county board will establish a policy for public schools within its jurisdiction to utilize the established guidelines.