Hematologist-Oncologist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of healthcare, the critical role of hematologist-oncologists cannot be overstated.
As medical advancements continue to surge forward, the need for skilled professionals who can diagnose, treat, and manage patients with blood diseases and cancer amplifies.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a hematologist-oncologist?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
- A hiring manager drawing up the perfect candidate profile,
- Or simply curious about the intricate field of hematologist-oncology,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable hematologist-oncologist job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Hematologist-Oncologist Duties and Responsibilities
Hematologist-Oncologists are medical professionals specializing in diagnosing and treating blood diseases and cancers.
They manage patients’ healthcare while providing supportive care and helping patients manage symptoms related to their diseases.
The daily duties and responsibilities of Hematologist-Oncologists include:
- Evaluating patient’s medical history and conducting physical examinations.
- Diagnosing and treating diseases and disorders related to blood and cancer.
- Interpreting laboratory results and diagnostic images to form diagnoses.
- Administering treatments such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and other targeted therapies.
- Conducting follow-up appointments to monitor the patient’s condition and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
- Coordinating with other healthcare professionals, like nurses, pharmacists, and medical technologists, for patient care.
- Participating in clinical research and trials to stay updated with the latest advancements in hematology and oncology.
- Communicating with patients and their families to explain diagnoses, treatments, and prognosis.
- Providing supportive care and symptom management for patients undergoing cancer treatments.
- Maintaining accurate and detailed medical records to track patient’s progress.
Hematologist-Oncologist Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a dedicated Hematologist-Oncologist to join our team of medical professionals.
The Hematologist-Oncologist will be responsible for diagnosing and treating blood diseases, as well as diagnosing, managing, and treating cancer.
This role includes prescribing medications, chemotherapy, and other treatments, and coordinating patient care with other healthcare providers.
Our ideal candidate has a strong knowledge of hematology and oncology, excellent patient care skills, and the ability to work with a multidisciplinary team.
Responsibilities
- Diagnose and treat hematological diseases and cancers
- Prescribe and administer chemotherapy, medications, and other treatments
- Monitor patients’ health conditions and progress
- Interpret results of laboratory tests and imaging studies
- Coordinate care with other healthcare providers
- Provide patient education regarding disease management and treatment
- Participate in clinical trials and research
- Maintain patient records and confidentiality
- Stay updated with latest treatments and advancements in hematology and oncology
Qualifications
- Medical Degree (MD or DO)
- Board Certified in Hematology and Oncology
- Valid and active medical license in the state of practice
- Minimum of three years of medical experience post-residency
- Strong ability to interpret laboratory and imaging results
- Excellent patient care and communication skills
- Ability to work with a multidisciplinary team
- Commitment to continuous learning and medical education
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Hematologist-Oncologist
- Work Environment: Hospital or medical clinic. Some on-call hours may be required.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Medical Director or Chief of Staff.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $220,000 minimum to $350,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and any relevant certifications to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Hematologist-Oncologist Do?
Hematologist-Oncologists are specialized medical professionals who diagnose, treat, and manage cancers and diseases of the blood and bone marrow.
They work primarily in hospitals, clinics, and cancer treatment centers.
These specialists review medical histories, conduct physical examinations, and order diagnostic tests such as biopsies, blood tests, and imaging studies to diagnose conditions.
They interpret these test results to confirm the presence of diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma, or sickle cell anemia, among others.
Their treatment options often include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy depending on the type and stage of the cancer or blood disease.
They also work closely with other healthcare providers like surgeons or radiologists to coordinate the patient’s care.
Hematologist-Oncologists manage symptoms and side effects of both the disease and its treatment.
This involves prescribing medications, advising on diet and exercise, and providing emotional support to patients and their families.
They constantly keep abreast of the latest research in their field to provide the most effective treatment options to their patients.
As part of their role, Hematologist-Oncologists also educate patients about their diagnosis and treatment plan, and ensure that patients understand the potential benefits and risks.
They often work long hours, which can include nights and weekends, due to the critical and often time-sensitive nature of their work.
Their job can be emotionally challenging as well, due to the serious illnesses they treat.
Hematologist-Oncologist Qualifications and Skills
A Hematologist-Oncologist should have a range of clinical skills, soft skills, and medical knowledge to diagnose, treat, and manage patients with blood disorders and cancer, such as:
- Medical knowledge in the field of hematology and oncology to accurately diagnose and treat patients with blood disorders and cancer.
- Technical skills to perform various medical procedures such as biopsies and bone marrow aspirations.
- Interpersonal and communication skills to build a trusting relationship with patients and their families, explain complex medical conditions, and discuss treatment options.
- Detail-oriented and organizational skills to manage patient records, laboratory results, and treatment plans.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to make effective decisions in high-stress situations and handle complications during the course of treatment.
- Continual learning and research skills to stay updated with the latest advancements in hematology and oncology, including new treatment methods and medications.
- Emotional resilience and empathy to support patients and their families through difficult diagnoses and treatment processes.
- Physical stamina to work long hours, sometimes on their feet, and deal with medical emergencies.
Hematologist-Oncologist Experience Requirements
A Hematologist-Oncologist typically begins their journey through a four-year undergraduate degree, followed by four years of medical school to become a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO).
Following medical school, potential Hematologist-Oncologists must complete a residency in internal medicine, typically lasting three years.
This hands-on training provides crucial clinical experience in treating patients and understanding the human body.
After completing their residency, they must then pursue a fellowship in hematology and oncology, which generally lasts two to four years.
During this time, they gain specialized knowledge and experience in treating cancer and blood disorders.
Therefore, to become a Hematologist-Oncologist, one is expected to have at least 10 years of education and hands-on training after high school.
A board certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine in both Hematology and Medical Oncology is also required, which involves passing exams that test the knowledge and skills acquired through training.
Some positions may require additional experience in a specific sub-speciality or additional research experience, particularly for positions in academic medicine.
Therefore, a candidate with more than 5 to 10 years of experience may be more suitable for senior or leadership roles within the Hematology-Oncology department.
Continued education and staying updated with latest research and clinical trials is also a significant part of a Hematologist-Oncologist’s job role.
Therefore, a candidate with a strong track record of research or continuous learning may be preferred.
Hematologist-Oncologist Education and Training Requirements
A Hematologist-Oncologist needs to have a Bachelor’s degree followed by a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from an accredited medical school.
To gain the MD degree, four years of undergraduate study, followed by four years of medical school are required.
This is followed by a three-year residency in internal medicine.
After completing the residency, the aspiring hematologist-oncologist must complete a two or three-year fellowship in hematology-oncology.
This fellowship combines training in blood diseases and cancer.
Once this training is completed, the hematologist-oncologist must pass the board certification exam from the American Board of Internal Medicine in both internal medicine and hematology-oncology.
Continuing education is required to maintain certification and stay abreast of the latest medical research and treatments.
Research experience may also be beneficial, especially for those planning to work in academic medicine.
In addition, specific soft skills such as excellent communication, empathy, and resilience are also critical in this field.
Hematologist-Oncologist Salary Expectations
A Hematologist-Oncologist earns an average salary of $307,000 (USD) per year.
However, the actual income may significantly vary based on factors such as the years of experience in the field, level of specialization, location of practice, and the nature of the employing institution or hospital.
Hematologist-Oncologist Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Hematologist-Oncologist need?
Hematologist-Oncologists should possess excellent diagnostic abilities, a deep understanding of cancer diseases and treatments, and the ability to interpret laboratory results.
They should have strong interpersonal skills to interact with patients and their families, as well as excellent communication skills to coordinate with other medical professionals.
They also need to have a good hand-eye coordination for procedures and treatments, and must be up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in oncology and hematology.
Do Hematologist-Oncologists need a specialized degree?
Yes, Hematologist-Oncologists need a specialized degree.
They must first complete a medical degree, followed by a residency in internal medicine.
This is then followed by a fellowship in hematology and oncology, which can take up to two to three years.
In total, becoming a Hematologist-Oncologist can take over ten years of education and training.
They also need to be board certified in hematology and oncology.
What should you look for in a Hematologist-Oncologist resume?
When reviewing a Hematologist-Oncologist’s resume, the first thing to look for is their education and certifications.
They should have a degree from a recognized medical school, completed a residency in internal medicine, and a fellowship in hematology and oncology.
They should also have board certification in these fields.
Also, look for any research or publications they have contributed to.
Practical experience, such as time spent in a clinical setting, is also a crucial factor to consider.
What qualities make a good Hematologist-Oncologist?
A good Hematologist-Oncologist is compassionate, understanding, and has a strong desire to help others.
They are able to make complex medical concepts understandable for patients and their families.
They should be detail-oriented and have excellent problem-solving skills to effectively diagnose and treat various blood disorders and cancer diseases.
They should also be committed to ongoing learning to stay abreast of the latest advancements in their field.
Is it difficult to hire a Hematologist-Oncologist?
Due to the specialized nature of the role and the extensive education required, finding qualified Hematologist-Oncologists can be challenging.
You should be prepared to offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract top candidates.
In addition, opportunities for research and professional development can also make the position more appealing.
Conclusion
And so, the veil has been lifted on what it truly means to be a hematologist-oncologist.
Surprised?
It’s not just about diagnosing and treating blood disorders and cancer.
It’s about shaping the future of healthcare, one patient at a time.
With our comprehensive hematologist-oncologist job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to advance.
But don’t stop your journey here.
Go further with our job description generator. It’s your next step towards creating finely-tuned job listings or perfecting your resume.
Remember:
Every patient is a part of the bigger picture.
Let’s shape that future. Together.
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