## Why Pathology?

Many people may not realize the importance of pathology in the medical field. Pathologists are the doctors who diagnose and study diseases by examining tissue samples and body fluids. They play a vital role in patient care, working closely with other healthcare professionals to develop treatment plans and monitor the effectiveness of therapies. In this post, we’ll explore why pathology is an essential field in healthcare and why more diverse representation in this field is necessary.

One significant reason to pursue pathology is the diverse range of opportunities it provides. Pathologists can work in various settings, from academic institutions to private practice. They can specialize in specific areas, including genetics, immunology, and microbiology or work in research to find new treatments for diseases. Additionally, pathologists can work in forensic pathology and help to determine the cause and manner of death in suspicious cases.

Moreover, pathology is a field that continues to evolve as new technologies and treatments become available. Pathologists must stay up-to-date with new research and advances in order to provide accurate diagnoses and develop effective treatments. For example, with the rise of precision medicine, pathologists can use genetic testing to tailor treatments to specific patients, a significant step in improving patient outcomes.

However, despite the significant role that pathology plays in patient care, minority representation in this field is notably low. According to a report by the National Institutes of Health, African Americans make up just 2.3% of pathologists in the United States. This lack of diversity is concerning because it can lead to disparities in patient care. For example, studies have shown that patients are more likely to follow treatment recommendations from doctors who share their racial or ethnic background. Therefore, increasing diversity in pathology could potentially improve patient outcomes.

One way to address the lack of diversity in pathology is to encourage more underrepresented minorities to pursue careers in this field. Medical schools can implement targeted outreach programs that focus on recruiting and retaining students from underrepresented backgrounds. Additionally, mentorship programs can pair students with experienced pathologists to provide guidance and support throughout their careers.

In conclusion, pathology is a crucial field in healthcare that provides diverse career opportunities and continues to evolve with new advances in medicine. However, the lack of diversity in this field is concerning, and action must be taken to address this issue. By encouraging more underrepresented minorities to pursue careers in pathology, we can improve patient outcomes and create a more equitable healthcare system. As Dr. Valerie R. Dawson, the president-elect of the National Medical Association stated, “Diversity is fundamental to excellence in healthcare.”

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Resident perspectives: why pathology?