Adults living with sickle cell disease in Saskatchewan, starting Wednesday will have access to red blood cell exchange or RBCX transfusions in Saskatoon and Regina.
The SHA says the frequency of transfusions varies according to patient need, but on average, is required every four to six weeks. Previously, RBCX transfusions were only available to adult patients out-of-province. Pediatric patients may access RBCX at Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital (JPCH) in Saskatoon.
Saskatchewan patients may access the procedure by physician referral at Regina General Hospital and St. Paul’s Hospital in Saskatoon. In urgent situations, treatment can be obtained at any acute care facility in Regina or Saskatoon, says the SHA.
The first patient received the procedure on Wednesday in Regina.