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Germany: Hematology

In Germany, leukaemia is treated by doctors specialising in haematology and oncology (Hämatologe/Onkologe).

Last updated: ~1 min read
On a dark navy background, a quiet haematology corridor.
Figure 1.The ward — Germany: Hematology

01Short answer

Treatment may take place on hospital wards or in oncology practices (onkologische Praxis). The plan is usually discussed at a tumour board (Tumorkonferenz). The DGHO’s Onkopedia guidelines are widely used, and many patients may be offered a place in trials run by national study groups; taking part is voluntary. Psycho-oncology support is also available.

02Simple explanation

Haematologist/oncologist: main doctor.

Tumorkonferenz: shared plan.

Trials: voluntary.

03Scientific explanation

Team: decisions are often discussed at a multidisciplinary meeting.

Research: you can withdraw from a trial at any time.

04What happens in the body?

The ward

Haematology wards work with infection-prevention rules.

Tumour board

Specialists discuss the best plan together.

Blood cells
Figure 2.Blood cells — Germany: Hematology

Study groups

National groups link centres.

On a dark navy background, nodes linking hospitals.
Figure 3.Research network — Germany: Hematology

05Working with your team

Four steps.

Haematologist — First meeting.1HaematologistFirst meeting.
Nurse — Daily contact.2NurseDaily contact.
Trial — Ask about it.3TrialAsk about it.
Plan — Shared decision.4PlanShared decision.
TrustYou know your team.
ChoiceYou are informed about trials.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
The wardHaematology wards work with infection-prevention rules.
Tumour boardSpecialists discuss the best plan together.
Study groupsNational groups link centres.

07Key terms

Hämatologe
Haematologist.
Tumorkonferenz
Tumour board.
Psychoonkologie
Psycho-oncology.
Studie
Clinical trial.

08Key points

  • Write down your team’s names.
  • Save the contact number.
  • Ask about trials.
  • Decide together.
  • Prepare questions in advance.

09Frequently asked questions

Can I choose my doctor?

In Germany you have wide choice of doctor and hospital.

Must I join a trial?

No, it is voluntary.

Whom do I call?

Usually the ward or practice; get the number in advance.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Can I choose my doctor?

  2. Must I join a trial?

  3. Whom do I call?

My questions

12Sources

  1. DGHO (German Society of Haematology and Medical Oncology). Official website (in German)
  2. Onkopedia (DGHO). Guidelines
  3. Kompetenznetz Leukämie. Official website (in German)
  4. Deutsche Leukämie- & Lymphom-Hilfe (DLH). Official website (in German)
  5. NHS. NHS 111 online
  6. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC/WHO). Global Cancer Observatory: Germany fact sheet
  7. Zentrum für Krebsregisterdaten (Robert Koch-Institut). Krebsdaten (in German)
  8. Gemeinsamer Bundesausschuss (G-BA). Official website (in German)
  9. Kassenärztliche Bundesvereinigung. 116117 – the on-call medical service
  10. OncoMAP (Deutsche Krebsgesellschaft). Certified cancer centres
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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