A first of its kind clinic to treat sickle cell patients will open later this month at Bahrain's main hospital, a report said.

The pilot facility, which is the only multi-disciplinary clinic in the region, will operate at Salmaniya Medical Complex from June 25, reported the Gulf Daily News, our sister publication.

Health officials met more than 30 specialists yesterday, including paramedics, who will work for the clinic and provide comprehensive treatment.

"This is the first of its kind multi-disciplinary clinic in the Middle East to treat sickle cell patients," said Health Ministry hospital affairs assistant under-secretary Dr Ameen Al Sa'ati.

"A patient has to pass through nine different stages of treatment starting from a nurse, who will evaluate the vital signs. The patient will then go through a chain of experts including a haematologist and the last stop is a nutritionist."

Dr Al Sa'ati said every detail of a patient's condition will be recorded and they will be diagnosed accordingly.

"In addition to all the experts we will also have pain management specialists, orthopaedic surgeons, psychologists and social workers present at this clinic to assist patients.

"I strongly believe this clinic is a turning point in the treatment of sickle cell disease in Bahrain. We are looking forward to co-operate with all stake holders and want to help sickle cell patients."

Dr Al Sa'ati said the clinic will operate twice a week during its initial stage - on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 2.15pm to 5.15pm.

"The number of days will be increased in the coming months to seven days and gradually the clinic will be open 24 hours a day," he explained.

He also said a 90-bed haematology centre opposite Al Fateh Specialist Centre at SMC is expected to open in the coming months.

The four-storey facility has an accident and emergency department, an out-patient department and wards for children, men and women.

"Once the haematology centre is ready we will shift this multi-disciplinary clinic for sickle cell patients there," said Dr Al Sa'ati. – TradeArabia News Service