The future of pathology David B. Kaminsky, M.D., FIAC
defining/directing change ASC EB was challenged to initiate a formal re- definition of scope of practice for cytotechnologists that would embrace new technologies and relationship to FNA and other facets of health care delivery
defining/directing change The report exceeded anticipated responses by characterizing a global snapshot of where medicine is today, how it is changing, and what pathologists must do to retain a preeminent position in diagnosis and therapy.
Traditional linear care delivery model (Patient-Clinician-Pathologist-Technologist) is breaking down as new relationships emerge. The most important new relationship is pathologist with patient.
As pathology becomes more interventional (ultrasound-guided biopsies by cytopathologists), new roles are defined at the patient interface. Pathologists will be transformed from clinicians’ consultants to clinical providers.
The future depends on evolution What is the portrait of the evolved pathologist?
the evolved pathologist Transitions focus from laboratory to patient. Establishes strong patient interface through interventional procedures (FNA), consultative services, direct patient education
the evolved pathologist Adapts new technologies to direct patient care (targeted therapies, prognostic indicators)
the evolved pathologist Embraces fusion of specialized disciplines
the evolved pathologist Intuitively shifts focus from the diagnostic sample to the complete patient (rounds on patients scheduled for frozen sections).
the evolved pathologist Enhances expertise in digital imaging/archiving, telemedicine
the evolved pathologist Advocates for image-guided FNA biopsies performed by interventional pathologists
the evolved PATHOLGOGIST Formats pathology reports to include patient education.
The california society of pathologists Support for the Future
the best way to predict the future is to create it -Peter Drucker