A haematologist is a doctor who specialises in diagnosing, treating, and managing problems with the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. They handle conditions such as anaemia, clotting disorders, and blood cancers like leukaemia. This guide explains what haematologists do—from running tests and procedures to working with other medical specialists—along with the different areas of haematology and the training needed to become one. It also helps readers understand when to see a haematologist and how these experts help protect and improve health.
What is a haematologist?
A haematologist is a doctor who diagnoses, treats, and manages problems with the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. They handle both non-cancerous conditions, such as anaemia or clotting disorders, and blood cancers like leukaemia. Haematologists study blood and the organs that produce it, often working with haematopathologists, who focus on diagnosing these diseases. Some haematologists also treat blood cancers, combining their role with that of an oncologist as a haematologist-oncologist.
Role of a haematologist
- Diagnose and Treat:
Identify and manage blood problems, from deficiencies to cancers. - Treat Blood Cancers:
Manage leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma using chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and bone marrow transplants. - Handle Non-Cancer Conditions:
- Anaemias: Iron deficiency, thalassaemia
- Bleeding and Clotting Disorders: Haemophilia, von Willebrand disease, DVT
- Other Issues: Sickle cell disease, platelet problems, transfusion complications
- Consult and Collaborate:
Work closely with GPs, pathologists, and oncologists. - Perform Procedures:
Request tests such as bone marrow biopsies and provide treatments like transfusions or chemotherapy.
Types of haematologists and their specialties
There are various types of haematologists who may focus on different patient groups or diseases. For example, paediatric haematologists specialise in blood disorders in children, while haematologist-oncologists focus on blood cancers and related treatments. Some haematologists specialise in blood transfusion medicine or coagulation disorders, tailoring their expertise to specific medical needs.
Common haematology tests and procedures
Common Haematology Tests
These tests check the number, shape, and function of blood cells:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC/FBC): Measures red and white blood cells, haemoglobin, haematocrit, and platelets.
- Coagulation Tests: Includes PT/INR, aPTT, and D-Dimer to assess blood clotting.
- Peripheral Blood Smear: Examines the shape and appearance of blood cells.
- ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate): Detects inflammation in the body.
- Reticulocyte Count: Shows how actively the bone marrow is producing new red blood cells.
- Haemoglobin Electrophoresis: Identifies abnormal types of haemoglobin.
Common Haematology Procedures
- Taking blood samples (venipuncture)
- Bone marrow aspiration or biopsy
- Phlebotomy (removing blood for treatment)
- Blood transfusions
- Flow cytometry (cell analysis)
- Iron infusions
Education required to become a haematologist
Undergraduate Degree:
Complete a bachelor’s degree with science and maths subjects, usually on a pre-medical track.
Medical School (MBBS/MD):
Finish a 4–5 year medical programme followed by a 1-year internship.
Residency Training:
Undertake a 3-year residency in one of the following:
- Internal Medicine: Focus on adult haematology
- Paediatrics: Focus on childhood blood disorders
- Pathology: Focus on laboratory-based haematopathology
Fellowship Training (Subspecialty):
Complete a 3–5 year fellowship to specialise in:
- Clinical Haematology: Direct patient care for blood disorders
- Haematology/Oncology: Blood disorders and blood cancers
- Haematopathology: Laboratory diagnosis of blood diseases
Difference between a haematologist and a haematopathologist
| Feature | Haematologist | Haematopathologist |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Workplace | Clinics and hospital wards | Laboratories |
| Patient Interaction | Frequent and direct | Rare or minimal |
| Main Goal | Treat and monitor patients’ blood disorders | Diagnose the underlying cause of blood diseases |
| Training Path | Internal Medicine or Paediatrics | Anatomical or Clinical Pathology |
When to See a haematologist
You should consult a haematologist if your doctor notices unusual results in your blood tests, such as low platelets or high white blood cells. You should also see a specialist if you have symptoms like excessive bleeding or bruising, constant tiredness, frequent infections, unexplained fever, night sweats, or swollen lymph nodes. These can signal problems with your blood, bone marrow, or lymphatic system that need expert care.
Conclusion
Haematologists are essential healthcare providers for diagnosing and managing complex blood disorders. If you are a healthcare professional aspiring to specialise in haematology or looking to enhance your qualifications, financial assistance options like loans for doctors or a professional loan can help support your educational and career goals.
