#United States #New York #Bleeding Disorders #NBDF #Maria Santaella

Maria E. Santaella Appointed as Editor-in-Chief of Bleeding Disorders Care & Practice

In a significant development for the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation (NBDF), Maria E. Santaella, PhD(c), MSN, RN-BC, CPHON, has been appointed as the new editor-in-chief of Bleeding Disorders Care & Practice. The announcement was made on April 28, 2026, showcasing NBDF’s commitment to advancing research and care practices in the field of bleeding disorders.

A New Era for the Journal

Launched originally in 2014 as The Journal of Haemophilia Practice, the publication underwent a transformation in its name to Bleeding Disorders Care & Practice in 2026. This change reflects a broader scope that acknowledges the care requirements of individuals with various bleeding disorders beyond just hemophilia. The journal aims to highlight the essential roles of a diverse healthcare team, which includes hematologists, nurses, social workers, physical therapists, and psychologists.

Santaella will take over from longtime editor-in-chief Kate Khair, bringing her extensive experience in nursing and patient care to the role. Her dual certification and focus on multidisciplinary approaches align perfectly with the journal's new mission. "Bleeding Disorders Care & Practice elevates work that is often underrepresented elsewhere—case studies, qualitative research, interdisciplinary models of care, and lived experience–informed scholarship that directly informs practice," Santaella remarked.

Emphasizing Multidisciplinary Care

The journal is set to emphasize the importance of collaborative approaches in delivering care to patients with bleeding disorders. This aligns seamlessly with NBDF's overall research strategy, which prioritizes the experiences of individuals living with these conditions and their support networks. Santaella noted that initiatives like Community Voices in Research play an essential role in understanding aspects such as mental health, pain management, treatment adherence, and family dynamics among patients.

Furthermore, the Bleeding Disorders Research Collaborative is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at constructing a community-driven research infrastructure. This collaborative effort aims to incorporate the perspectives of patients and caregivers at all stages of the research process.

A Call to the Community

As she steps into her editorial role, Santaella has issued a call to action for the bleeding disorders community. She encourages active participation from stakeholders, stating, "Share your experiences, participate in research, engage as reviewers, and help us continue building a journal that reflects everyone in the bleeding disorders community.” This initiative serves to strengthen the connection between research findings, clinical practice, and personal experiences, ultimately advocating for improved standards of care.

Santaella’s vision is not just about publishing new findings but about transforming those findings into actionable strategies that enhance patient care and outcomes. She emphasizes the necessity for ongoing communication between researchers and practitioners, a vital element for continuous improvement in treatment modalities that address real-world challenges faced by patients.

About the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation

The National Bleeding Disorders Foundation is committed to curing inherited blood and bleeding disorders and aims to prevent the complications associated with these conditions through robust research, education, and advocacy. The foundation serves individuals throughout the United States affected by various bleeding disorders, including hemophilia and von Willebrand disease, focusing on helping families thrive despite their challenges. With its recent rebranding from the National Hemophilia Foundation (NHF) to NBDF, the foundation aims to reach a broader audience through the new domain: bleeding.org.

In conclusion, Maria E. Santaella's appointment as editor-in-chief marks an exciting new chapter for Bleeding Disorders Care & Practice. With her leadership and the journal’s renewed focus on integrating all voices in the bleeding disorders community, the publication aims to make significant strides in advancing care and enhancing patient outcomes.