What is hematology?
Hematology is the treatment and study of blood and blood disorders. This includes red blood cells, white blood cells, bone marrow, and all other parts of the blood.
BMC hematologists treat both cancerous and non-cancerous (benign) blood disorders. We work closely with the Blood Bank, patient navigators, social workers, dieticians, specialty pharmacy, and more to ensure you get the best care possible.
What conditions do hematologists treat?
Our hematologists treat:
- Sickle cell disease
- Thalassemia
- Hemochromatosis
- Von Willebrand’s disease
- Hemophilia
- Thrombosis (increased blood clots)
- Myeloproliferative disorders
- Myelodysplastic syndromes
- Anemias
- Acute leukemia
- Chronic leukemia
- Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Lymphoma
- Multiple myeloma
What services does hematology offer?
To treat blood disorders, our hematologists offer:
- Infusions
- Apheresis
- Patient navigators
- Specialty pharmacy
- Referrals to other services
What should I expect during my first visit?
When you’re referred to Hematology, our doctors may have you do additional testing to get a complete picture of your condition before they make treatment recommendations. Depending on your diagnosis, you may be referred to one or more treatments, including:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Surgery
Once you and your doctor decide on a treatment plan, you will meet with the team you’ll work with through the next phase of your care.
What should I expect as I continue to receive care?
Many patients will receive care in our Infusion Suite, which provides patients with the utmost privacy, comfort, and convenience. The suite includes private rooms with beds and bays with large reclining chairs for patients and comfortable seating for those who accompany them. In addition, support services such as patient navigation are available in the infusion suite to address questions or needs during your visit.
As you receive treatment, it often helps to use stress-relieving methods that have worked for you other situations (i.e., meditating, religion, hobbies, etc.). Exercising may also help, but please talk to your care team before starting or continuing any exercise program. Exercising under the care of your physician can also be helpful to deal with the stresses of your illness.