The Standing Medical Advisory Committee's report Sickle Cell, Thalassaemia and Other Haemoglobinopathies was published, after much delay, in February.1, 2 A month later the report was discussed at a multidisciplinary forum convened by the Royal College of Pathologists. What did the more than 100 health professionals, patients, and representatives of voluntary groups make of it?

Generally, they welcomed the report because it highlights the patchy services for these patients in Britain and should stimulate debate, research, and action. They liked the report's endorsement of multidisciplinary care, with seamless services, good communication, and the involvement of patients. The forum emphasised the importance of accessibility, cultural sensitivity, and the need to overcome language barriers in the provision of all services, including counselling. It concluded that for most areas the most cost effective solution would be the provision of written educational materials in relevant languages and an accessible, informed interpreting service.

The report places “comprehensive centres” at the centre of service provision for patients with haemoglobinopathies. Integral …