Defining and Developing Education for Systems-Based Hematology With Richard Godby, MD

The field of systems-based hematology is gaining recognition as a critical component in optimizing healthcare delivery, yet it remains largely undefined and underrecognized. At the 2024 American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting, Dr. Richard Godby presented his team’s study on creating a standardized curriculum for systems-based hematology. His findings shed light on the gaps, challenges, and future directions in this emerging discipline, offering valuable guidance for oncology trainees and clinicians.

What is Systems-Based Hematology?

Dr. Godby describes systems-based hematology as a multidisciplinary approach focused on coordinating the multiple interacting components of healthcare to deliver optimal care. “To me, systems-based hematology is working with each of those components to optimize healthcare and its delivery to the right patient at the right time and the right place,” he explained.

This field encompasses various aspects, including quality improvement, patient safety, healthcare economics, and implementation science. Its ultimate goal is to standardize processes and enhance patient outcomes through strategic interventions across the healthcare system.

The Need for Standardization

The driver of Dr. Godby’s study is the lack of a standardized curriculum in systems-based hematology. Experts in the field often develop their expertise independently, leading to inconsistent definitions and practices. A standardized curriculum could address these disparities, providing a common vocabulary and a unified approach to training future hematologists.

Dr. Godby and his team conducted qualitative research by interviewing eight systems-based hematology experts. Their thematic analysis revealed the following themes:

1. The need to create a universal definition and vocabulary for systems-based hematology
2. The importance of data-driven approaches and collaboration with other healthcare professionals to improve healthcare delivery, implement quality improvement (QI) initiatives, conduct pragmatic research, and advocate for policy changes at various levels
3. Development of a comprehensive curriculum with various delivery methods such as asynchronous online modules, virtual workshops, and in-person sessions that can be accessed by hematology fellows, junior faculty, and hematology clinicians
4. Challenges, including lack of awareness and recognition among healthcare professionals and administrators, resource constraints, and need for institutional buy-in, as well as technical difficulties in measuring and demonstrating the value of systems-based hematology interventions
5. Optimism about the future of systems-based hematology and its role in addressing rising healthcare costs, quality concerns, and disparities in care, as well as anticipation for the integration of new technologies like artificial intelligence, “virtual” care delivery, and molecular genetics

Challenges and Future Directions

Dr. Godby acknowledged the difficulty in quantifying the value of the work performed in this field, which can hinder long-term sustainability. “Trying to help people actually quantify what they’re adding to the system through this work is really important and should be part of the curriculum,” he emphasized.

Another critical step is broadening the field’s scope to include pediatric specialists, community hematologists, and malignant hematologists. Greater inclusivity would bring diverse perspectives and expertise, enhancing the curriculum and the field’s overall impact.

Practical Implications for Clinicians

Dr. Godby highlighted the transformative potential of systems-based hematology for patient care. While patients may not directly encounter a systems-based hematologist, their work influences every stage of the healthcare process—from appointment scheduling to treatment and follow-up. “It’s all working together in the background to make healthcare as smooth as possible for every patient regardless of the situation they’re in,” he explained.

For oncology trainees, this study underscores the importance of understanding systems-based principles to improve patient outcomes and healthcare delivery. Developing these skills can empower trainees to identify inefficiencies, advocate for system-level improvements, and collaborate across disciplines.

Key Takeaways

1. Definition and Scope: Systems-based hematology integrates multidisciplinary components to enhance healthcare delivery, focusing on quality, safety, and efficiency
2. Curriculum Development: Standardized training is essential to unify practices and increase interest in the field
3. Impact on Patient Care: By streamlining processes and addressing systemic challenges, systems-based hematology ensures patients receive optimal care at the right time and place

About Dr. Godby

Richard Godby, MD, is a Classical Hematologist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. He also has a background in transfusion medicine. Dr. Godby’s research interests are in medical education and systems-based hematology. He previously completed his Hematology/Oncology Fellowship at the Mayo Clinic in 2024.