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Netherlands: Hematology

In the Netherlands, leukaemia is treated by haematologists, doctors who specialise in blood diseases.

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

01Short answer

A haematologist usually works with a nurse specialist (verpleegkundig specialist). Complex treatment such as intensive chemotherapy and transplantation takes place in specialised centres. Many patients may be offered a place in a HOVON clinical trial; taking part is always voluntary.

02Simple explanation

Haematologist: your main doctor.

Nurse specialist: for everyday questions.

HOVON: research group.

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.

Diagnosis

Blood and bone-marrow tests confirm the type.

On a dark navy background, cells under a lens.
Figure 2.Blood cells — Netherlands: Hematology

Research

HOVON links centres in the Netherlands and Belgium.

On a dark navy background, nodes linking hospitals.
Figure 3.Research network — Netherlands: 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.
DiagnosisBlood and bone-marrow tests confirm the type.
ResearchHOVON links centres in the Netherlands and Belgium.

07Key terms

Hematoloog
Haematologist.
Verpleegkundig specialist
Nurse specialist.
MDO
Multidisciplinary meeting.
HOVON
Research group.

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 haematologist?

You can choose a hospital; discuss it with your GP.

Must I join a trial?

No, it is always voluntary.

Whom do I call?

Usually the ward or your nurse specialist.

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 haematologist?

  2. Must I join a trial?

  3. Whom do I call?

My questions

12Sources

  1. Hematologie Nederland. Official website (in Dutch)
  2. HOVON (Dutch-Belgian Hemato-Oncology Foundation). Official website
  3. Hematon. Patient organisation for blood cancer (in Dutch)
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Leukemia—Patient Version
  5. European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies (WHO). Türkiye: health system information and resources
  6. İstanbul University. Official website
  7. Ege University. Official website
  8. Acıbadem Healthcare Group. Official website
  9. HealthTürkiye (Ministry of Health / USHAŞ). Official health tourism portal
  10. Türkiye İlaç ve Tıbbi Cihaz Kurumu (TİTCK). Official website (in Turkish)
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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