Find A Hematologist Near You
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At Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, we treat more than just cancer. Our hematologists play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating a wide variety of conditions, including blood clotting disorders, diseases, immune system deficiencies, anemia, leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Hematology focuses on the study of blood, blood disorders and blood forming organs, while oncology specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
Many of our hematologists are also board certified in medical oncology and have a deep understanding of both blood disorders and blood cancers, enabling them to provide advanced expertise to patients with non-cancerous hematologic conditions, as well as those facing a cancer diagnosis. If you’ve been referred to a hematologist, it indicates the need for specialized expertise in managing a blood-related condition. We are proud to offer top-quality hematology services and highly skilled hematologists to address your specific needs. With nearly 100 convenient locations throughout Florida, we are committed to providing world-class care that is both accessible and comprehensive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hematology?
Hematology is a specialized branch of medicine that focuses on the study and treatment of disorders related to blood and blood components. Hematologists and hematopathologists are healthcare professionals with extensive training in this field. They specialize in diagnosing and managing conditions such as anemia, immunodeficiencies, thromboembolism (blood clots), leukemia, and bleeding disorders, including hereditary bleeding diseases. By analyzing blood and bone marrow cells hematologists can provide valuable insights into a patient’s overall health and develop personalized treatment plans. With their expertise, hematologists play a crucial role in maintaining the well-being of patients with hematological conditions by ensuring the proper functioning of their blood and addressing any related medical concerns.
Why are hematology and oncology together?
The integration of hematology and oncology allows for a comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and treatment of blood-related disorders, chronic conditions and cancers. Hematology focuses on the study of blood and its components, while oncology specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. By combining these disciplines, hematology and medical oncology providers have a deep understanding of both blood disorders and cancer, enabling them to provide holistic care to patients. This collaboration ensures that individuals with hematological conditions such as leukemia, lymphoma, or myeloma receive specialized cancer care, while those with non-cancer related blood abnormalities benefit from advanced expertise in hematology. The synergy between hematology and oncology enhances the ability to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of conditions, leading to improved patient outcomes and a more comprehensive approach blood disorder and cancer care. Back to Top
What will a hematologist do at my first visit?
On your first visit to a hematologist, expect a comprehensive examination focused on your symptoms, overall health, and potential blood disorders or diseases. The hematologist will conduct a physical exam and inquire about your current symptoms. They will likely order blood tests to aid in the accurate diagnosis of your specific condition. This initial assessment lays the foundation for your hematologist to provide personalized treatment and ongoing care. Back to Top
What types of conditions do hematologists treat?
A hematologist can diagnose, treat and manage a wide range of blood diseases and conditions that affect blood cells. At Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute our experts are at the forefront of science and innovation, using the latest technologies to provide you with the best hematological treatments and personalized care to meet your unique needs. Some of the most common hematological conditions are:
- Leukemia
- Lymphoma
- Myeloma
- Anemia
- Hemophilia
- Sickle cell disease
- Blood clots
- Blood cancers
Does seeing a hematologist mean I have cancer?
Seeing a hematologist does not necessarily mean you have cancer. Hematologists are specialized doctors who diagnose and treat a wide range of blood disorders, including but not limited to non-cancerous conditions like anemia, bleeding disorders, clotting disorders, and immune system deficiencies. However, they also treat cancerous conditions such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. If your primary care physician refers you to a hematologist, it is to ensure a thorough evaluation of your blood-related health concerns, which may or may not be related to cancer. Hematologists work closely with other specialists to provide accurate diagnoses and develop personalized treatment plans based on individual needs. Back to Top
What blood tests would a hematologist do?
When evaluating patients, hematologists often perform a range of blood tests to assess and diagnose various blood-related conditions. Some of the most common blood tests include:
- CBC (Complete Blood Count) measures red and white blood cell counts, hemoglobin levels, and platelet counts.
- PBS (Peripheral Blood Smear) allows a hematologist or hematopathologists to examine the morphology and characteristics of blood cells and platelets under a microscope.
- PTT (Prothrombin Time Test) measures how quickly your blood begins to clot and is used to assess clotting factors and detect bleeding disorders.
- Reticulocyte Count measures the number of young red blood cells in your blood and is one tool doctors use to identify if a patient’s bone marrow is producing enough red blood cells.
- Genetic Screening Tests identify risk factors for inherited blood disorders.
- Next-Generation Sequencing tests the DNA found in cancerous cells to identify genetic mutations which can help determine a targeted treatment for your condition.