Sickle Cell Specialist
Inova Adult Sickle Cell Program, Inova Schar Cancer Institute
University of Virginia, School of Medicine Inova Campus
Falls Church, Virginia, United States
Dr. Sheinei Alan is the Director of the Inova Adult Sickle Cell Program in Fairfax, Virginia, the only dedicated adult sickle cell program in Northern Virginia. She also serves as an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. Dr. Alan earned her medical and post-doctoral degrees from Virginia Commonwealth University and completed her training in Internal Medicine at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. With a robust foundation as an MD/PhD specializing in hematopoiesis, immunology, and internal medicine, she has dedicated her career to advancing sickle cell disease (SCD) care and advocacy.
Dr. Alan’s combined expertise in science and clinical medicine has driven the growth and success of the Inova Adult Sickle Cell Program, resulting in significant improvements in patient outcomes, increased patient volume and initiation of numerous clinical trials. She leads various research initiatives, including Phase I and Phase II clinical trials, investigator-initiated studies, and the dissemination of findings through academic conferences and publications.
Beyond her research efforts, Dr. Alan collaborates with leading SCD experts to develop guidelines and metrics for defining and grading adverse outcomes in SCD, with the goal of standardizing clinical trials and enhancing care delivery. She is also deeply committed to educating healthcare professionals within the Inova system—including hospitalists, emergency physicians, fellows, and medical residents—on best practices for standardized SCD care.
Dr. Alan’s dedication extends to the community, where she serves on the advisory board of a community-based SCD organization, organizes town halls, and advocates for greater awareness of SCD. Most notably, she recently hosted an in-person SCD town hall attended by over 200 stakeholders, including experts and government officials.
With a clear vision for the Inova Adult Sickle Cell Program, Dr. Alan strives to deliver comprehensive care, contribute to the development of advanced therapies, and lead impactful clinical research to address the critical needs of SCD patients in Northern Virginia.