Pathology refers to the examination of patient specimens in a laboratory to determine the cause, nature, and the progression of any disease. Both anatomical and clinical pathologists do this medical research; however, the nature of the work they do, and their roles are different from each other. One should understand the differences between the two for attaining career success in the respective fields.
Richard G Soper MD – An insight into anatomical and clinical pathology
Richard G Soper MD is an esteemed doctor from Nashville, TN. He has 42 years of rich experience in anatomic pathology and clinical pathology, addiction medicine, psychiatry, and cytopathology. He says that when it comes to anatomical pathology, professionals in the fieldwork with dermatologists, neurologists, coroners, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals to collect tissues for biopsy procedures. With their aid and assistance, doctors are able to devise a customized treatment plan for their patients. Anatomical pathologists work in independent labs, medical centers, and hospitals. Aspirants in the field should hold a medical degree, license, and board certification in the above. An anatomical pathology professional needs to document all their testing procedures and review results accurately. They should always keep a sterile and clean environment to ensure samples are not contaminated or destroyed. Besides the above, the anatomical pathology expert supervises administration, the maintenance of equipment and procurement of supplies for the laboratory.
An overview of the responsibilities of clinical pathologists
Clinical pathologists look after many divisions of laboratory-like immunology, hematology, and toxicology. Here, the experts use samples of fluids like blood, bone marrow, and spinal fluid. They assist doctors in understanding the severity and the cause of the disease. They are experts in managing different kinds of diagnostic tools for analyzing the concentration of specific substances in the body like drugs or alcohol. Like an anatomy pathologist, the clinical pathologist needs a medical degree, board certification, and license. However, in order to become an expert in the field, one needs to have a very good background in math, laboratory practices, and research science.
According to Richard G Soper MD, a clinical pathologist manages a wide array of laboratory services. The expert is responsible for the development of procedures and policies to enhance the safety, accuracy, and efficiency of the laboratory. They should be well-versed in communicating the results of tests to medical staff and physicians. They also participate in education programs to stay updated and informed on the latest technology and scientific advances in the medical industry. There are several openings in the fields of anatomy and clinical pathology. Aspirants are able to earn a good salary, and they are widely respected in the field. However, before deciding to take up the career, one should always consult a good healthcare professional for guidance. The differences between both should be understood before one undertakes training in the field. It is best to talk to professionals to understand the nature of the work and the career prospects in the region where you stay before choosing between anatomy or clinical pathology for success!
