Pathologist Job Description

A Pathologist is a specialized medical doctor who diagnoses diseases by examining tissues, blood, and body fluids, playing a critical role in determining accurate diagnoses and guiding effective treatment plans for patients.

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What is a Pathologist?

A Pathologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the study and diagnosis of disease through the examination of organs, tissues, bodily fluids, and laboratory analyses. They are often referred to as 'the doctor's doctor' because their findings are essential for other physicians to make accurate diagnoses and determine appropriate treatments. Pathologists work behind the scenes in clinical laboratories, hospitals, and research institutions, using advanced technologies such as microscopes, molecular testing, and digital imaging to identify abnormalities and provide critical insights into the nature and progression of diseases.

What does a Pathologist do?

Pathologists perform a wide range of duties focused on disease diagnosis and research. They analyze tissue samples (biopsies) and surgical specimens to detect cancers, infections, and other conditions, often using microscopic examination. They interpret laboratory tests, including blood work, genetic studies, and chemical analyses, to monitor health and diagnose disorders. Pathologists also conduct autopsies to determine causes of death and contribute to medical knowledge. Additionally, they collaborate with other healthcare providers to discuss findings, ensure quality control in labs, and stay updated on advancements in diagnostic techniques and treatments.

Job Overview

A Pathologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the study and diagnosis of disease through the examination of tissues, organs, bodily fluids, and autopsies. This role involves analyzing laboratory data to provide critical diagnostic information that guides patient treatment plans and contributes to medical research. Pathologists work in hospital laboratories, private clinics, research institutions, and academic settings, collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure accurate diagnosis and optimal patient care.

Pathologist responsibilities include:

1. Perform microscopic examination of tissue specimens (surgical pathology) and cytological samples 2. Conduct and interpret autopsy findings to determine cause of death 3. Analyze laboratory results including hematology, chemistry, microbiology, and molecular diagnostics 4. Provide diagnostic consultation to physicians and healthcare teams 5. Supervise laboratory operations and ensure quality control standards (CAP, CLIA, JCAHO) 6. Document findings in detailed pathology reports using standardized terminology 7. Participate in tumor boards and multidisciplinary case conferences 8. Direct and mentor pathology residents and laboratory staff 9. Implement and validate new diagnostic technologies and methodologies 10. Maintain compliance with federal and state regulatory requirements
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Must-Have Requirements

1. Medical Doctor (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from accredited institution 2. Board certification in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology (AP/CP) by American Board of Pathology 3. Valid state medical license to practice pathology in the United States 4. Completion of 4-year pathology residency program accredited by ACGME 5. Minimum 3 years of post-residency experience in diagnostic pathology 6. Proficiency in electronic medical records systems and pathology information systems 7. Strong knowledge of CAP laboratory accreditation standards 8. Demonstrated expertise in histopathological interpretation and diagnosis 9. Excellent written and verbal communication skills for interdisciplinary collaboration 10. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of patient information (HIPAA compliance)

Preferred Qualifications

1. Fellowship training in subspecialty area (surgical pathology, hematopathology, cytopathology, etc.) 2. Experience in academic medicine with teaching and research responsibilities 3. Proficiency in molecular pathology techniques and genomic testing interpretation 4. Previous leadership role in pathology department or laboratory management 5. Publication record in peer-reviewed medical journals 6. Experience with digital pathology systems and whole slide imaging 7. Knowledge of laboratory information system implementation and optimization 8. Board certification in pathology subspecialty (forensic pathology, dermatopathology, etc.) 9. Experience in high-volume clinical laboratory environments 10. Active participation in professional organizations (USCAP, CAP, ASCP)

Bonus Skills

1. Expertise in rare or complex disease pathology (transplant pathology, neuropathology) 2. Proficiency in second subspecialty certification area 3. Experience with artificial intelligence/machine learning applications in pathology 4. Research grant funding or principal investigator experience 5. Proficiency in laboratory developed test (LDT) validation 6. Multilingual capabilities for diverse patient populations 7. Experience with telepathology and remote consultation services 8. Quality improvement certification (Six Sigma, Lean methodologies) 9. Advanced molecular diagnostics expertise (NGS, FISH, PCR) 10. Previous role as medical director of clinical laboratory

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