What is quality in surgical pathology?

• Published in: Journal of clinical pathology Vol. 59; no. 7; pp. 669 - 672
• Main Author: Nakhleh, R E
• Format: Journal Article Book Review
• Language: English
• Published: London BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Association of Clinical Pathologists 01-07-2006; BMJ; BMJ Publishing Group LTD; BMJ Group
• Subjects: Biological and medical sciences; CoC; Commission on Cancer; FISH; fluorescent in situ hybridisation; Humans; Investigative techniques, diagnostic techniques (general aspects); Laboratories - standards; Medical sciences; Pathology, Surgical - organization & administration; Pathology, Surgical - standards; Pathology. Cytology. Biochemistry. Spectrometry. Miscellaneous investigative techniques; Professional Competence; QA&I; quality assurance; quality assurance and improvement; Quality Assurance, Health Care - methods; Review; surgical pathology; TAT; turnaround time; Anatomic pathology; Surgery; Quality
• ISSN: 0021-9746; 1472-4146
• DOI: 10.1136/jcp.2005.031385

Quality in surgical pathology may be defined as accurate, timely, and complete reports. Achieving quality requires substantial investment in the basic structure and in the people who undertake surgical pathology. Quality assurance and improvement works best when it is woven into the systems of surgical pathology with well informed, well trained, and knowledgeable staff.