Biography
Dr Paola Polistena is a clinical haematologist with extensive experience treating malignant and non-malignant blood disorders. Her practice encompasses complex haematological conditions, including blood cancers, haemoglobinopathies and clotting and bleeding disorders. Dr Polistena prioritises clear communication and strong patient relationships, helping each person understand their condition and make informed decisions about their care.
Biography
Dr Paola Polistena completed her medical training in Italy, where she worked for 17 years and developed significant expertise through advanced study and clinical practice in haematology. Her experience includes autologous and allogeneic bone marrow transplantation and the management of acute and chronic leukaemias, lymphomas and other haematological malignancies. She was also a principal investigator for clinical trials in acute leukaemia and lymphoma in Italy.
After moving to Australia, Dr Polistena worked as a fellow in bone marrow transplantation at Fiona Stanley Hospital for one year. She subsequently undertook a fellowship in myeloma at The Alfred Hospital in Melbourne before spending two years as a consultant at Latrobe Regional Hospital in Victoria. She was awarded Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians in 2020.
Since 2023, Dr Polistena has consulted at Bunbury Regional Hospital and Western Haematology and Oncology Clinics. In 2026, she commenced a collaboration with Perth Blood Institute as a sub-investigator on multiple clinical trials.
Dr Polistena treats both malignant and non-malignant haematological conditions. She understands that blood disorders can be complex and p rioritises clear, accessible communication so patients can make informed decisions about their treatment. She believes that a strong relationship with each patient is an integral part of their overall treatment plan.