More than “hematology”: A qualitative study on the experience of hematologists treating people with blood cancer in Greece

Abstract

Purpose: The present study aims to investigate the experiences of hematologists providing care to patients with hematological malignancies, whose care is pertinent to oncology. Methods: Semi-structured interviews with 30 hematologists across Greece were conducted. The interviews took place over the course of six months at 2020. Reflexive thematic analysis was employed for data analysis. Results: Three key themes (personal impact, organizational framework, and relating to patients) and eight subthemes were generated: 1. Hematologists were greatly affected on a personal level, as they had poor life-work balance and impacted social relationships. They experienced a great emotional toll, sometimes questioning the meaning of their work. They frequently struggled with loss, by witnessing people’s passing. Nevertheless, they reported coping better over time. 2. On an organizational level, hematologists supported each other emotionally, but only rarely had formal support in managerial or administrative recourses. They were also hindered by structural restraints, both in terms of limited psychosocial training and supportive services. 3. Hematologists’ relationship with their patients increased their job satisfaction. However, they strived to keep boundaries while balancing how close they got to their patients. Conclusion: High job demands and organizational aspects pose hematologists with the risk of developing compassion fatigue or burnout. Working under difficult conditions, they needed to go above and beyond to provide appropriate care to their patients. At the same time, individual resources, teamwork, or other structural opportunities emerged as crucial coping elements. Support should be offered both personally and professionally to improve their lives and prevent potential turnover.