Philosophy

very day, millions of blood tests are taken. Statistically, about 1 in 20 will come back as abnormal. A simple automated full blood count can return 15 or more different parameters. What if some are abnormal? Is it a simple normal variation, a reactive feature, or something that requires further investigation? Could it be an abnormality not important for the patient’s health, but that may have implications for the next generation? An abnormal blood test can cause significant anxiety in anyone. Having taught medical students at several medical schools as well as GPs and junior doctors, Dr Ivanov understands that Haematology is universally perceived as a very complex subject, that often doesn’t get the attention it requires at both under- and post-graduate level. Frequently, GPs and doctors in other specialities are puzzled by the results of full blood counts, specialist clotting tests, and so on. Most Dr Ivanov’s clinical time is spent treating patients with serious haematological conditions, but he is equally happy to see patients who would like to discuss abnormal blood results. A few words of reassurance can bring significant relief. A letter of referral, although helpful, is not always essential. Dr Ivanov aims to provide the highest quality of service to patients, keeping patients and their doctors fully and honestly informed of diagnosis and treatment options available. Haematology is becoming more complex with new genes, mechanisms of disease and treatments being discovered every month, if not week. One person can no longer cover all areas of Haematology. If Dr Ivanov feels that a patient might benefit from a review or a treatment by an expert in a certain field of Haematology, he will offer a referral to the best specialist in the area.