Hematologists

After medical school, three to eight years in a residency program in hematology and passing the standardized national licensure exam are required for employment as a hematologist.

Hematologists who specialize in research must be detail oriented, organized, and keen on solving problems. Those who work with patients must have strong communication skills to deal with a wide range of people as well as health care support staff. Compassion and patience are essential skills for treating patients who may be extremely ill and for sharing information about their health and prognosis with them and their families.

Hematologists should be inquisitive and have an interest in medicine and research, as well as strong academic ability, especially in the sciences. You need the discipline to spend long hours writing lengthy grant proposals and researching articles. You also need the ability to be a team player and have patience to conduct lengthy research projects. If you work directly with patients and their families, you should feel comfortable dealing with seriously ill people.