Pathologists' assistant

Abstract: Pathologists' assistants have been formally trained since 1969 to assist in technical anatomic pathology procedures. The authors surveyed 165 assistants who are members of their national organization to determine the actual demographic distribution and patterns of use. One hundred respondents were slightly more concentrated in the eastern United States, usually in pathology groups larger than the national average. Assistants generally performed a large percentage of the autopsy and surgical specimen dissections and various ancillary functions: teaching, supervision, administration, or research. Sixty-six of 82 employer pathologists responded to a companion survey. They were satisfied with the assistant's work. Most hired assistants to free themselves from technical functions or to replace residents, believed that assistants' numbers will remain small, and favored a national certification program. Thus, pathologists' assistants are effectively filling a need for ancillary anatomic pathology personnel in selective situations, primarily in larger pathology practices.

Abstract: Gross room personnel (GRP) work alongside pathologists in grossing, frozen section, and autopsy. We observed that gross room personnel desire follow-up and feedback on the specimens they gross or a...

Abstract: After 17 years in existence, a Pathologists’ Assistant Training Program continues to thrive. Because a recent survey of pathologists reflected new changes in anatomic pathology, the program curriculum was altered to adjust to current progress; however, the basic practical training was maintained. With the addition of more students, new clinical rotations have been added to ensure adequate exposure to surgical and autopsy pathology. Courses in computers and laboratory management reflect the attitudes of the pathologists surveyed toward the role of the assistant.