Anatomical and Clinical Pathologist |
Career OverviewAn anatomical and clinical pathologist examines and diagnoses tissue that is removed from the body either during a surgical procedure or after death.
Often anatomical and clinical pathologists all called in to examine and diagnosis tissue during a surgical procedure and this is usually done by freezing the tissue and then making extremely thin slices that can be viewed by pathologist under a microscope. In addition an anatomical and clinical pathologist may use chemical processes, hematology, toxicology, microbiology and other scientific disciplines to attempt to understand the health concerns of the individual.
An anatomical and clinical pathologist may also oversee blood testing with regards to transplanting tissues or organs, genetic testing, or HLA typing. Many anatomical and clinical pathologists oversee laboratories and other blood treatment centers or work as consultants to physicians in the diagnosis of conditions and progress of treatment.
The anatomical and clinical pathologist must have both a logical and creative ability to process information and to recommend treatment options. The anatomical and clinical pathologist must also be familiar with scientific procedure chain of evidence policies and procedures as often in autopsy cases the anatomical and clinical pathologist may be required to testify in court as to causes of death.
The anatomical and clinical pathologist must be able to work in a team environment but should also be a team leader and control and manage the handling of any and all tissue samples in the facility. Knowledge of various chemical processes and diagnostic tests is critical for an anatomical and clinical pathologist.
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Career RequirementsIt is possible to complete an undergraduate study in pathology that may be applied towards graduate studies. After undergraduate courses that are the same as a medical doctor the pathology student completes a four or five residency program in pathology.
After completing residency the anatomical and clinical pathologist must then pass a written and practical exam that is monitored by the American Board of Pathology.
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Job OutlookSince anatomical and clinical pathologists can hold many different positions within the hospital or healthcare facility the demand for pathologists is strong and steady.
The United States Department of Labor estimates that the demand for trained pathologist will continue to increase as more hospitals and healthcare facilities are opened up across the country. Increasing diagnostic testing by surgeons and physicians has also increased the demand for those trained in anatomical and clinical pathology.
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Career TrackAn anatomical and clinical pathologist has many different choices. They may decide to:
- Work in hospitals or healthcare facilities
- Specialize in blood banks or blood transfusion practice
- Work in forensic pathology
- Molecular pathology
- Hematology
- Immunopathology
- Medical microbiology
In addition many anatomical and clinical pathologists return to research and teaching positions at medical colleges and research universities. The demand for anatomical and clinical pathologists is also high in the pharmaceutical sector and many pathologists take jobs running research laboratories.
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CompensationAn anatomical and clinical pathologist with more than three years of experience can earn in excess of $350,000, depending on the size and location of the hospital or healthcare facility that they are employed by. Those anatomical and clinical pathologists working with pharmaceutical companies in laboratory management positions may earn $500,000 per year.
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