ISH is the oldest and only world hematology organization established by the national hematology societies, in 1946. ISH is an independent organization dedicated to educated professionals and publics in all areas of hematology. The ISH is dedicated to advancing scientific research and the practice of hematology at both clinical and laboratory levels. It remains strongly committed to serving, educating, and promoting up-to-date knowledge in hematology while upholding the highest ethical and scientific standards.

ISH membership is open to any individual with a medical or scientific qualification in good professional standing and an active interest in hematology for at least five years. ISH has over 4,500 active members worldwide.

History of ISH

In 1946, an international conference was organized by Dr. Uribe Guerola (Mexico) in Dallas and this meeting was attended by 90 delegates from Canada, United States, Great Britain, China, Greece and Mexico. In this small session an inspiration was received from free exchange of scientific information. The group including clinicians, clinical pathologists, chemists, geneticists and morphologists were motivated and highly interested in the study of blood. They were also determined to offer education and new benefits to all concerned. The International Society of Hematology (ISH) was founded by 18 fellows and 90 delegates from November 23, 1946. Fellows voted to have the Dallas and Mexico City meetings designated as the First Congress of the International Society of Hematology (ISH) and Dr. Joseph M. Hill as its first president.

The first formal ISH Congress was held in Buffalo, New York from August 23 to 26, 1948. In this congress, there were 740 attendees from 21 countries, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Costa Rica, Cuba, France, the United Kingdom, Greece, the Netherlands, Israel, Mexico, Norway, Pakistan, Peru, Poland, Sweden, Turkey, the United States and Venezuela.

Administration
Administrative Structure
ISH consists of three divisions:

• Asian and Pacific Division (APD)
• European and African Division (EAD)
• Inter - American Division (IAD)

Each Division is governed by the Secretary - General and Divisional Board.

The Thai Society of Hematology (TSH) was established in 1978, with the objective of being the center for hematologists, scientists and others interested in hematology. It is also responsible for residency/fellowship training, promoting scientific activities and research within the field and has established ongoing connection with numerous international hematology societies. At present, there are 1,145 members including physicians, scientists, nurses and pharmacists. Throughout its over 40 years of establishment, TSH has initiated and implemented significant progressive developments that have benefited the country.

Current Hematology development in Thailand

The curriculum of subspecialty in Hematology was initiated in 1980, under the auspices of the Royal College of Physicians of Thailand and Royal College of Pediatricians of Thailand. The curriculum received accreditation by the Medical Council, and at present there are 766 Board certified hematologists. TSH also collaborates with the Royal College of Physicians of Thailand and the Royal College of Pediatricians of Thailand in the training and certification of diplomas in Internal Medicine.

TSH has been organizing hematology training courses for over 20 years, graduating approximately 25-30 hematologists annually. In collaboration with its partner institutions, TSH has also played a vital role in raising public awareness and gaining government attention on hematological diseases.