A paediatric haematologist specialises in the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and investigation of disorders of the haematopoietic, haemostatic, and lymphatic systems, and disorders of the interaction between blood and the blood vessel wall. These disorders may be primary blood disorders or the consequence of diseases in other systems. Paediatric haematology also includes transfusion medicine. A paediatric haematologist will cover these disorders in neonates, children, and adolescents.

Paediatric haematologists emphasise comprehensive diagnosis, personalised treatment plans, and compassionate patient- and family-centred care, including palliative care. They provide care in a range of diverse settings, including:

The investigation and treatment of a wide range of non-malignant diseases. This can include bone marrow failure syndromes and cytopenias, inherited and acquired coagulation abnormalities, abnormalities of haemoglobin and red cells, cellular therapy, and transfusion medicine.

The use of a broad scientific knowledge base. This can include the relevant aspects of biochemistry, genetics, haematology, immunology, pathology, and pharmacology.

Providing acute, longitudinal, and palliative care of patients. Paediatric haematologists work with a broad range of individuals and their carers, including neonates, children, adolescents, and those who require emergency and end-of-life care.

The use of clinical, laboratory, and procedural skills

  • diagnosing and managing many acquired and inherited disorders that lead to blood cell abnormalities, bleeding, and/or thrombosis
  • diagnosing and managing some lymphoproliferative and myeloproliferative disorders in neonates, children, and adolescents
  • interpreting abnormalities in test results and consulting with other medical practitioners, guiding appropriate patient care or further investigations
  • medically managing some vascular anomalies and their complications
  • performing bone marrow biopsies and working with the laboratory to manage bone marrow disorders. This involves consideration of ancillary testing, such as cytogenetic or molecular analysis
  • overseeing the transfusion of blood products, providing advice about appropriate and safe transfusion practices in many situations.

Paediatric haematologists provide clinical expertise, analytical acumen in interpretation of laboratory investigations, and effective communication, including:

  • Working in close cooperation with many professional groups

    This includes biomedical scientists, clinical laboratory scientists, dietitians, haematology specialist nurses, laboratory haematologists, pharmacists, physiotherapists, and many professionals allied to medicine. Care of paediatric haematology patients requires close liaison with other medical specialists, such as clinical oncology, intensive care microbiology, obstetrics, palliative care, pathology, renal medicine, and surgery. Paediatric haematologists frequently contribute to the diagnosis and management of patients in both community and hospital settings.

  • Working sensitively with a variety of patients

    Paediatric haematologists develop an ability to deal with children with haematological conditions, their parents, and/or carers in a professional and empathetic manner.

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills

    Paediatric haematologists must have effective communication and interpersonal skills for building rapport with patients and collaborating with multidisciplinary healthcare teams. It is also essential that they appreciate when referral to a more appropriate or more qualified practitioner in a particular subspecialty is necessary. Paediatric haematologists must be able to explain complex medical concepts in a clear and empathetic manner, address patients’/carers’ concerns, and involve them in shared decision making regarding treatment.

  • Managing resources for the benefit of patients and communities

    Paediatric haematologists apply a biopsychosocial approach to ensure the delivery of efficient, cost-effective, and safe care for the benefit of their patients and communities.

  • Applying a scholarly approach

    Paediatric haematologists conduct academic research to discover better ways of understanding, diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease. Many paediatric haematologists engage in academic teaching, clinical research, and scholarly activities to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in haematology, improvement of treatment modalities, and management of patients.

  • Leadership and management skills

    Paediatric haematologists may assume leadership roles within healthcare institutions, research organisations, or professional societies. Effective leadership and management skills are necessary for overseeing clinical programs, mentoring junior staff, advocating for resources, and driving quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care and outcomes.

Last modified: Thursday, 27 November 2025, 12:27 PM