Pathologist Duties and Responsibilities
While a pathologists day-to-day duties and responsibilities are determined by where they work, there are many core tasks associated with the role. Based on our analysis of job listings, these include:
Analyze and Test Samples
Using microscopes and other testing tools, pathologists analyze samples of blood, urine, tissue, and other bodily specimens and run tests. They use their understanding of diseases to look for abnormalities in samples that could indicate the patient has a blood disorder, cancer, or other condition.
Ensure Accurate Test Results
To prevent accuracy issues, pathologists first calibrate testing equipment to ensure it performs within standards. When running tests, they also use checklists, medical software, and retests to get thorough and precise results.
Diagnose Diseases
Using information gathered through tests and analyses, pathologists determine the most likely disease diagnosis and communicate this to the patients physician. They also may suggest potential treatment options.
Write Reports
Usually using electronic medical record software, pathologists write thorough pathology reports describing the specimens tested, results of all tests, and the diagnosis.
Perform Research
Pathologists conduct regular research to stay current with ways to identify and treat diseases. They can use their findings to make new tests and develop treatment options.
Pathologist Skills and Qualifications
Specimen analysis pathologists properly use lab equipment to look at samples and perform tests to accurately analyze bodily fluids and tissue specimens
Familiarity with diseases they have a thorough understanding of diseases within their specialty and how they present themselves in the body
Research skills performing research using electronic databases and medical literature allows pathologists to improve testing methods and find new treatments
Attention to detail to give accurate test results and diagnoses, pat