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The role of a haematologist
5-minute read
Key facts
- Haematologists are specialist doctors who diagnose and treat blood diseases.
- Blood diseases include blood cancers, conditions that cause problems with blood clotting or bleeding and genetic blood disorders.
- You will need a referral to see a haematologist.
What is a haematologist?
A haematologist is a specialist doctor. They treat conditions that affect your blood and the body organs that make blood.
A haematologist has completed several years of specialist training after becoming a doctor.
When do I see a haematologist?
Haematologists treat many different conditions that affect blood, including:
- blood clots — deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism
- abnormal bleeding
- leukaemia — cancer that affects the blood and develops in your bone marrow
- myeloma — a type of cancer that affects some white blood cells
- lymphoma — cancer of the lymphatic system
- anaemia — a lack of haemoglobin or red blood cells in your blood
- iron deficiency or iron overload (haemochromatosis)
Haematologists also treat genetic conditions that affect the blood, such as:
- haemophilia — a condition that causes abnormal bleeding
- thalassaemia — a condition that affects the haemoglobin in red blood cells
- sickle cell disease — a condition that affects the shape of red blood cells
- von Willebrand disease
Haematologists can manage blood diseases with different treatments, such as:
- medicines
- chemotherapy
- blood transfusions
- bone marrow transplants
What should I expect during an appointment with a haematologist?
Your haematologist will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may also ask you about any illnesses in your family. They will ask for details about any medicines you take and any allergies you have.
Your haematologist will examine you, including your:
- abdomen (tummy)
- lymph nodes in your neck, underarms and groin
- nails, hands, skin and hair
- eyes
- mouth
Your haematologist may recommend tests, such as:
- blood tests
- urine tests
- x-rays or scans
- bone marrow biopsy
- genetic tests
Your haematologist may be able to recommend treatment at your first visit. Or they may ask you for a follow-up visit to discuss test results and plan future treatment.
What questions should I ask a haematologist?
Before you go to your first appointment, note down any questions you have.
You may want to ask your haematologist:
- What is the name of my condition?
- What are the side effects or risks of the recommended tests or treatments?
- What is the aim of treatment — will it cure my condition?
- Is there a clinical trial I can enter?
You can always ask about anything that you are not sure about or don't understand.
ASK YOUR DOCTOR — Preparing for an appointment? Use the Question Builder for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.
How much will it cost to see a haematologist?
You can see a haematologist at a public hospital clinic. These services are covered by Medicare, so you don't need to pay anything.
It can be expensive to see private specialists. Ask about the costs when you book your appointment. You should ask what costs Medicare will cover. If you plan to use private health insurance, contact your health fund to find out what costs they will cover.
How can I find a haematologist?
Your doctor (GP) is usually the best person to recommend a haematologist. Close friends and family may also have recommendations.
You can also use healthdirect's online service finder to locate a haematologist in your local area.
FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.
Do I need a referral to see a haematologist?
It's important to get a referral from your doctor (GP) to see a haematologist in a public or private clinic.
Your GP will write a referral letter, describing your symptoms or condition and the results of any tests you have had. After you see the haematologist, they will update your GP about any further tests results and treatments they recommend.
Haematologists also treat people with blood conditions who are admitted to hospital via the emergency department.
Resources and support
Cancer Council NSW has information about blood cancers. Call Cancer Council Australia on 13 11 20 for cancer information and support.
The Haemophilia Foundation Australia has information about haemophilia and bleeding disorders.
Thalassaemia and Sickle Cell Australia gives support to people living with a genetic haemoglobin condition.
You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.