Haematologist

Job description

Haematology is the study the study of blood, blood-forming organs and blood diseases. Haematologists care for and treat patients suffering from haematological diseases. Their role encompasses both clinical and laboratory aspects; many haematologists work in laboratories while others, such as consultant haematologists, work in hospitals and have direct contact with patients.

Work activities

• Undertaking consultations with patients.
• Testing blood samples using a variety of techniques.
• Analysing samples and interpreting data in order to reach a diagnosis.
• Cross-matching blood for use in blood transfusions.
• Consulting with various other clinical staff.
• Keeping records and preparing reports.
• Liaising with other medical professionals to determine appropriate courses of therapy.

Work conditions

Travel: not usually a feature.

Working hours: tend to be unsociable and involve evenings and weekends to keep up with hospital schedules.

Location: laboratories and organisations through the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Typical employers

• Irish Blood Transfusion Service
• Pharmaceutical companies
• HSE
• NHS

Entry requirements

At least a BSc in a relevant subject is required. Most haematologists begin either as trainee biomedical or clinical scientists.

After completing at least two years of General Professional Training, specialist training in haematology is necessary. In all this takes five years to complete. See  for more details.

Training in Northern Ireland also takes around five years.