PACS Clinic

The Prevention of Asthma Complications in Sickle Cell Disease Patients with Mild Asthma (PACS) Clinic cares for children and teens with sickle cell disease (SCD) who also have mild asthma. Having both illnesses increases the risk of serious lung problems, including acute chest syndrome. These problems can also cause pain episodes (pain crises). Such problems can lead to emergency room visits or hospital stays. 

Care providers help families follow asthma care plans and watch for breathing problems. This helps lower the risk of health problems that can be prevented.  

St. Jude hematology and pulmonology care providers may refer patients to the PACS Clinic.

Services we provide

Our team cares for health problems linked to sickle cell disease and mild asthma. Our services include: 

• A review of your child’s health history, with a focus on SCD and asthma 
• In-depth education about your child’s condition 
• Hands‑on teaching for using inhalers and breathing tools correctly 

Your PACS Clinic team

Care team members have special training and experience in SCD and asthma care. 

Staff members include: 

• Hematology nurse: Has expertise in managing SCD and special training in asthma symptoms and care plans 
• Lead nurse: Helps coordinate care and keep clinic visits running smoothly 
• Nurse practitioner: Has expertise in SCD and special training in asthma care, does an in-depth physical exam, develops an asthma action plan, and provides education for patients and families  
• Respiratory therapist: Provides breathing testing and care with hands-on teaching about proper use of inhalers and other breathing tools  
• Nurse care coordinator: Has expertise in SCD and special training in asthma care, makes sure patients and families get the training, education, and support to follow care plans at home 
• Lung care specialist (pulmonologist): Partners with the PACS team to provide expert guidance when needed 

What to expect during your visit

During a PACS Clinic visit, your child may have: 

• Breathing tests (pulmonary function tests or PFTs): Check how well the lungs work by testing a person’s breathing patterns with a machine.   
• Physical exam: Checks overall health and looks for any asthma‑related concerns 
• Education and coaching: Teaches patients and families about sickle cell disease, asthma, and how to manage symptoms 
• Asthma action plan: Helps patients, families, and school staff know what to do based on symptoms. The plan has information about daily medicines, inhalers, and when to get help. The plan helps patients better manage their symptoms to help prevent more severe attacks. 

Learn more

The PACS Clinic is located in the Hematology Clinic (H Clinic) 

901-595-5041