Alabama Health Officials Consider Reorganizing Sickle Cell Association Under Department of Health

The Alabama Joint Interim Sunset Committee convened on August 21, 2025, to discuss the status and operations of various boards, including the Sickle Cell Foundation. A significant focus of the meeting was the financial management and organizational structure of the foundation, particularly in light of the absence of the Tract County chapter from Selma.

Committee members noted that funds from the foundation are currently divided between the Greater Sickle Cell Foundation of Montgomery and the Southeast Alabama Sickle Cell Association. Despite no complaints being reported during the sunset period from fiscal years 2021 to 2024, concerns were raised about the foundation's financial health and operational independence.

Several committee members suggested that the Sickle Cell Foundation might benefit from being integrated under the Alabama Department of Public Health. This proposal stems from the belief that the foundation, which relies heavily on volunteers, could gain better access to resources and professional support if managed by a state health department. The discussion highlighted a 54% year-over-year increase in professional services costs, raising questions about the foundation's financial management amid claims of insufficient funding.

Additionally, the committee addressed the need for improved representation on the board, particularly regarding racial diversity, given that sickle cell disease predominantly affects minority populations. Suggestions were made to reconsider the requirement for Senate confirmation of board members, with some members advocating for a reevaluation of the board's structure and appointment process.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to gather more information on the reorganization of the Tri County chapter and to explore potential funding solutions to enhance the foundation's effectiveness. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the Sickle Cell Foundation and the need for strategic changes to better serve affected communities in Alabama.