As a trainee you will receive in depth training in the clinical and laboratory aspects of the blood and blood forming organs. Training will be through a variety of work-based learning and assessment tools to prepare you for independent practice. Trainees will also complete a research project as part of their training requirements.

Haematology is a specialist field related to benign and malignant conditions of the red and white blood cells, platelets, and the coagulation system. Clinical Haematologists specialise in identifying, diagnosing, treating, researching, and preventing blood-related diseases and other genetic disorders  by studying cellular composition of blood and blood-producing tissues. . Blood disorders and disorders of the lymphatic system can include: 

• Haemophilia: a disease that prevents blood clots
• Thalassemia: a problem where the body doesn’t produce enough haemoglobin
• Lymphoma: life-threatening cancer that affects the lymph nodes and vessels
• Leukemia: life-threatening cancer that affects blood cells
• Sepsis: a blood infection 
• Anaemia: a condition whereby the body does not produce enough red blood cells 
• Sickle cell anaemia: a disease that stops red blood cells from travelling through your body
• Deep vein thrombosis: a condition in which blood clots form inside the veins

Most of a haematologist’s time is spent managing blood and bone marrow diseases by providing direct clinical care to patients and diagnosing the disorders in the laboratory. Direct care can involve chemotherapy. 

Haematologists must be highly competent at performing tests, analysing the results, and assisting clinicians in diagnosing and treating disease. Haematologists may assist many hospital departments, including emergency, operating theatres, oncology, and intensive care. 

Aside from the educational requirements of advanced training in Clinical Haematology, there are several personal attributes that are considered essential for a Clinical Haematologist:

• Strong communication skills 

Haematologists must work with and instruct other health professionals, including nurses, pharmacists, and GPs. They must also clearly communicate results, concerns and treatment options with patients and their families. Therefore, strong written and verbal communication skills are highly desired. 

• The ability to multi-task and cope with a high demand job 

Haematologists need to support several hospital departments whilst supporting their patients. In some instances, treatment will need to begin immediately. Therefore, the ability to make decisions under pressure is a desirable attribute. 

• Empathy and compassion

 Ultimately, all Haematologists aim to improve the survival rates of patients through their work. But what patients need in these moments is a high level of empathy and compassion. Caring for patients with empathy and respect is a highly respected trait. 

The number of trainees selected per year varies. In 2021, 7 applicants were chosen to enter their first year of training in Queensland in from 27 eligible applicants. As of 2019, there are 452 specialists in Australia. 

There are countless reasons why North Queensland is one of the best places on the planet to work, live, and study. No matter what stage or age you are in, Northern Queensland offers a great balance between work and leisure. 

Visitors and residents find the North Queensland lifestyle relaxed and laid-back. The people are friendly and welcoming. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as swimming, surfing, fishing, and hiking, and when the sun goes down, there are also many bars, restaurants, and cafes to enjoy. 

North Queensland has the convenience of cities close by, all of which have reasonable housing costs and expansive landscapes to explore nearby. The region combines quality education and the chance to pursue a relaxed or adventurous lifestyle, depending on your preference. The area has a warm climate all year round, beautiful beaches and rainforests, and is home to a diverse range of cultures and lifestyles, making Northern Queensland hard to beat. 

Each regional centre in North Queensland is small enough to escape the crowded nature of big city living, but they still have enough going on for you to socialise and entertain yourself. And with short commute times putting more hours back into your workday, you’ll have plenty of time to explore when offered the chance. 

Networking and industry social opportunities frequently happen due to the tight-knit and collaborative nature of the health and hospital communities here. The vision to improve the health of the communities throughout the region, unites the students, interns, junior doctors, and specialists training and working here. Together we hope to address the shortage of doctors in North Queensland. 

Our training region ensures trainees have access to a wide range of hospital and health settings of varying sizes and capabilities offering a diverse case load and case mix. These training areas include the following health service areas: Cairns, Central West, Mackay, North West, Torres and Cape, and Townsville.

 References

• https://www.rcpath.org/discover-pathology/news/fact-sheets/haematology.html
• https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-a-hematologist#tests-they-order
• https://medinav.health.qld.gov.au/careers/medicine/haematology
• https://www.racp.edu.au/trainees/advanced-training/advanced-training-programs/clinical-haematology