Translate
Haematology (blood) services for children
This website contains general health information and does not replace the advice of a health professional. Always contact 000 in an emergency.
What is haematology?
The haematology team provides care for non-malignant blood disorders including haemophilia, von Willebrand disease, spherocytosis, sickle cell anaemia and thalassaemia. The haematology service is the Haemophilia Treatment Centre for Tasmania.
Learn more from the Haemophilia Foundation Tasmania website
Who we care for
The paediatric haematology clinic specializes in the diagnosis and management of blood disorders. Our service is based in the Royal Hobart Hospital but we provide statewide care and treatment coordination for children and young people in Tasmania. We provide support, education and training to enable and enhance self-care. We also provide support for children on warfarin requiring monitoring.
Your primary haematology team
Your haematology team usually begins with the following people:
Child and family/caregiver
You and your parents/caregivers are important members of our health care team, you look after yourself and your condition every day. You can tell us about your health and how your condition affects your everyday life. We will include you in decisions about your health.
Oncology nurse
The specialist oncology nurses are your main contact point. Depending on your needs, the nurse may provide assessment, education and support, giving you the information you need to care for your condition. They will help you to organize your care and assist with communication between team members. You can talk to them if you have questions or concerns.
Paediatric oncologist
The paediatric oncologist is an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of childhood cancers. They will review your health at each clinic appointment, make sure you receive the care and tests you need and will be involved in making decisions about your care.
Dietitian
The dietitian will assist in the assessment and management of your nutritional needs related to your condition. They will talk to you about your diet and make recommendations to support your health and growth.
Pharmacist
The pharmacist will help you understand your medication and keep your medication plan as simple, safe and helpful as possible.
Social worker
Social workers can provide counselling and teach skills to help you cope with problems with your health, relationships or circumstances. They can help you understand your rights and help to advocate for you.
Paediatrician
Your paediatrician is a key member of your health care team, they provide specialist medical care and look at your health holistically. Your paediatrician often takes the lead in providing a diagnosis or organizes referrals for tests or assessment with other health professionals.
General practitioner (GP)
Your GP takes care of your general health needs within the community. They often provide initial assessment and can refer to a paediatrician if more specialised care is required. Your GP can provide care in between more specialist appointments and assist with prescriptions and community care plans/action plans for your family or school. They will receive updates from other professionals.
Depending on individual needs the following health professionals may also provide care:
Physiotherapist
A psychologist works with you to understand the impact your condition has on your life and helps you to overcome challenges, change behaviour and improve your mental health.
Physiotherapist
Physiotherapists are experts in musculoskeletal assessment and treatment. They can help with motor skills (such as walking), joint problems, pain and fatigue.
Occupational therapist (OT)
Occupational therapists help people to participate in activities they find meaningful and daily activities that they need to do. These activities include self-care (such as mealtimes or getting dressed), play, learning, school, work, leisure, hobbies and spending time with friends and family. Occupational therapists assess and assist with movement, thinking, sensory processing and equipment.
Dietitian
The dietitian will assist in the assessment and management of your nutritional needs related to your condition. They will talk to you about your diet and make recommendations to support your health and growth.
Neuropsychologist
A neuropsychologist provides assessment to understand how conditions affecting your brain may impact learning, memory, behaviour and decision-making.
Rehabilitation team
The rehabilitation team help children and young people to learn or regain skills and independence related to everyday activities. They work with you to set goals that aim to enhance the quality of life.
Haematology resources
Support organisations
- Hereditary Spherocytosis | Fact Sheets (melbournehaematology.com.au)
- Haemophilia Foundation Australia
- Spleen Australia
- WFH - World Federation of Haemophilia
Immune deficiencies
- Home - IDFA
- Primary immunodeficiency - Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA)
View additional resources from the Child Health (Paediatrics) team
Other support
Family Support Services
Some families may require increased support through a community organisation due to the complexity of their situation or other vulnerabilities.
Learn more on the Strong Families Safe Kids website
School
Tasmanian Government schools can access extra support or services to meet health and disability needs. It is important to discuss any individual requirements with school staff.
Contact details
Statewide
Royal Hobart Hospital
Paediatric Outpatients
Lower Ground
Argyle Street Hobart Tas 7000
Phone: 6166 0000
Fax: 6173 0469
For all general clinic enquiries please contact the Paediatric Outpatient Department on 6166 0000.
The Paediatric Oncology-Haematology Clinical Nurse Consultant can be contacted directly to discuss referrals and appointments.
Contact details:
Phone: 6166 8045
Email: [email protected]
(please note that this email address is only monitored during business hours)
