A Team Approach That Made All the Difference for This Patient

When Hikie was told he needed a surgical procedure, his first thought wasn’t about the operating room—it was about bleeding risk. Like many people living with a bleeding disorder, Hikie knew that even routine medical procedures can carry serious complications without the right preparation. His experience, however, unfolded very differently, and far better, thanks to seamless collaboration between his physician, Hemophilia of Georgia nurses and pharmacists, and the Hemophilia Treatment Center (HTC).

As soon as his doctor recommended surgery, Hikie requested that she consult with Dr. Kempton regarding his bleeding risk. “Within a couple of days, Dr. Kempton had reviewed everything, approved the procedure, and provided a detailed treatment protocol,” Hikie shared. That quick response set the tone for what would become a remarkable example of coordinated care in action.

Next came the logistics—often the most stressful part of care for patients. Hemophilia of Georgia’s pharmacy team worked swiftly to secure insurance approval and deliver the necessary medication to Hikie’s home within a week. For Hikie, this was a huge relief. “Everything was handled smoothly and efficiently,” he said. “I didn’t have to chase paperwork or worry about delays.”

Because Hikie does not self-infuse, the plan required another layer of teamwork. The HTC Nurse Coordinator joined forces with Hemophilia of Georgia’s Director of Clinical Coordination and Outreach Nursing team to create an infusion schedule that matched Dr. Kempton’s protocol precisely. Nurses visited Hikie at home for four consecutive days (Friday through Monday) making sure every dose was delivered safely and on time.

“Each visit went off without a hitch,” Hikie recalled. “The nurses were professional, reassuring, and clearly communicated with one another. I always felt informed and supported.”

The results spoke for themselves. Despite the known risks associated with the type of procedure he underwent, Hikie experienced no bleeding complications at all. None.

“With all of this wonderful attention, I experienced NONE of the bleeding issues that often occur with this procedure—none,” he emphasized. “That outcome is directly tied to the level of coordination and care provided.”

For Hikie, the experience changed how he views healthcare partnerships. “It’s one thing to hear about the great services provided by Hemophilia of Georgia,” he said. “It’s an entirely different thing to experience it firsthand.”

Today, Hikie looks back on his procedure not with anxiety, but with gratitude. Gratitude for a doctor who listened. For specialists who responded quickly. For pharmacists who navigated approvals and delivery. And for nurses who showed up when he needed them most.

“I’m grateful to everyone involved,” Hikie said simply. “This team approach made all the difference.”