Expert recommendations for the conduct and appraisal of qualitative research in haematology

Haematological disorders constitute a public health crisis in more than 160 countries worldwide. Despite millions afflicted, people with haematological diagnoses remain underserved and understudied. This Review, one of four companion Reviews on qualitative research published in The Lancet Oncology, The Lancet Haematology, and eClinicalMedicine, reports findings from a symposium of international multidisciplinary experts in applied qualitative research, highlighting the purpose and added value of qualitative research for improving health outcomes for people with haematological disorders and their communities. First, we describe how applied qualitative research elevates the voices of marginalised populations, review gaps in the current science, and present examples of impactful qualitative research in haematology across the research lifecycle. Second, we spotlight the need for global uptake of applied qualitative methods for people with haematological disorders to address questions related to health equity, care access, treatment adherence, and ethical implications of participation in therapeutic trials. Finally, we present an expert-informed roadmap for the conduct and appraisal of qualitative research in haematology comprising five pillars (engagement, flexibility, transparency, transferability, and impact) to promote best practices for applied qualitative research in haematology.