A pathologist plays a crucial role in medical care. Sometimes called “the doctor's doctor,” they help the treating physician diagnose a patient and pinpoint the best course of treatment.

Do pathologists interact with patients?

While most pathologists issue tens of thousands of diagnostic reports but generate few if any direct discussions with patients, others meet with patients with greater frequency.

Do Clinical pathologists see patients?

On any given day, pathologists impact nearly all aspects of patient care, from diagnosing cancer to managing chronic diseases such as diabetes through accurate laboratory testing. They diagnose all types of medical conditions: Diseases—by studying specimens such as polyps and biopsies.