# Medical haematology: Repositioning haematology at the centre of medicine

## TL;DR

This paper argues for redefining haematology to better recognize non-cancer blood disorders and their critical role in medicine.

## Contribution

The paper proposes the term 'Medical Haematology' to unify and elevate the field, addressing research and workforce inequities.

## Key findings

- The term 'non-malignant' haematology misrepresents complex, life-threatening conditions and contributes to research inequities.
- Medical Haematology plays a central role in anticoagulation, transfusion, and global health challenges.
- Gene therapy and immunotherapy advancements in haematology demonstrate its pioneering role in molecular medicine.

## Abstract

Haematology is at a crossroads, divided between haemato‐oncology and the disparate disciplines collectively known as ‘non‐malignant’ haematology. This latter term is a misnomer that devalues a spectrum of complex, life‐threatening conditions and contributes to workforce shortages and research inequities. This article argues for the formal adoption of the term Medical Haematology to redefine this domain. We chart its central role across medicine, from guiding anticoagulation, transfusion and thrombosis care across specialties to addressing global health challenges. We highlight its pioneering contributions to molecular medicine and immunotherapy, exemplified by gene therapy for haemophilia and the repurposing of chimeric antigen receptor T cells for autoimmune disease. Finally, we present a forward‐looking blueprint involving establishment of ‘Blood Teams’, revamping educational curricula and championing equity to secure the speciality's future. Embracing Medical Haematology is a strategic imperative to reflect the life‐threatening nature of many conditions within the speciality, attract trainees, rebalance research priorities and firmly re‐establish haematology's indispensable role at the heart of modern medical practice.

The complementary domains of Medical Haematology and Haemato‐Oncology share a biological framework. The left panel depicts red cells, platelets, coagulation, thrombosis and innate immunity, while the right panel shows lymphoid and myeloid malignancies. A central DNA helix highlights common molecular and translational pathways across the speciality of haematology.