Source
r/thalassemia•
EnvironmentalImage9

Can a hematologist/oncologist help me?

I want to see a hematologist because I desperately need treatment. I've needed it for years and doctors have been severely neglecting me. I'm trying to take healthcare into my own hands but I'm feeling helpless. The only hematologists near me are oncologists first and foremost. I'm afraid they won't be able to treat me since it seems like they ONLY do cancer. They're literally at a cancer center only for cancer patients... Please give me any guidance you can, it's been a rough day and I need to make some progress or I'm going to freak out.

Posted Jul 13, 2022, 3:31 AM UTC

211
ravendaisy_eyes•

My oncologist is also a hemotologist. Many are. And yes I would highly recommend doing so

5
EnvironmentalImage9OP•

Okay that makes me feel a little better. I wish I could call them and ask, but you have to go through so many people before you can talk to the doctor. I'll ask for a referral and see if this gets me anywhere. I really hope they can help.

2
ravendaisy_eyes•

Good luck. You really do need someone to monitor your blood work

3
notuguillermo•

The hematologist group I go to is also oncology!! It’s very normal. When you make the appointment just tell them it’s for hematology for a blood disorder. I actually love that the practice I go to also works with cancer patients because I’ve found that the staff and doctors are some of the most kind, patient, and understanding people with amazing bedside manners. They also have SO many resources available in-office. Best of luck to you!

3
EnvironmentalImage9OP•

Thank you! That's very encouraging and makes me feel a lot better about my options.

1
CutsSoFresh•

I see my hematologist at the oncology center. I think the two specialties intersect enough for this to be completely normal

2
[deleted]•

[deleted]

1
EnvironmentalImage9OP•

Thalassemia lol

2
Kanye_To_The•

Well, yeah. What kind?

Edit: trying to gauge how much you actually need a specialist. Not sure why I was downvoted

0
Shionou-A•

Your post left me speechless

its as if I wrote it myself

1
EnvironmentalImage9OP•

I'm sorry you can relate 💔 hopefully we'll both get the treatment we deserve soon.

1
Sabathecat•

If you live in the US, I suggest contacting one of the thalassemia centers: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/thalassemia/centers.html. They have thal specific doctors to help you and they won’t dismiss your disease.

1