What is a haematologist?

Haematologists provide expert care for blood disorders​

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A haematologist is a highly specialised doctor who diagnoses and treats a wide range of blood disorders.

With extensive training and expertise, haematologists play a key role in managing conditions that affect the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. ​

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Conditions Treated by a Haematologist

Haematologists are experts in diagnosing and managing a variety of blood-related conditions, including:

• Abnormal Blood Test Results: Investigating and treating issues such as low neutrophils (neutropenia), low platelets (thrombocytopenia), and low red blood cells (anaemia).

• Clotting Disorders: Managing conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and bleeding tendencies.

• Blood Cancers: In Australia, haematologists (not oncologists) are the primary specialists for treating blood cancers such as leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.

Why Choose a Haematologist?

Becoming a haematologist requires 7-10 years of additional training after medical school, ensuring they have the expertise to handle complex blood disorders.

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Some haematologists, like Dr Murphy, are dual-trained in both clinical and laboratory haematology. This unique qualification allows them to work in a laboratory and personally interpret specialised tests, including:

• Blood films

• Bone marrow biopsies

• Flow cytometry

This dual expertise ensures accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans for patients.​

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Many blood test abnormalities are NOT a sign of a serious blood disorder - if this is the case, haematologists can provide reassurance and reduce the need for repeated testing / monitoring.