Thread by @WilliamsKona

Who are pathologists? There's a lot of misinformation about us, and although this isn't an exhaustive list, these are some of the more common stereotypes that need dispelled. #pathology

1. Pathologists are bad communicators.

Medical schools specifically select for students who are excellent at communication. This is an essential skill for any medical doctor.

Pathologists need to be clear and concise in our reports, in our communication with clinicians, and especially giving expert testimony in court. We also speak with patients and families (surprise!)

2. Pathologists don't like people.

We serve people. That's our job. Every day we have to interact with our colleagues, our support staff, clinicians, health professionals, learners, and yes, patients and their families.

Some of us are more introverted, but that doesn't mean we don't interact well with others. Reach out - we're happy to talk your ear off about path!

3. Pathologists only look at small bits of tissue under the microscope.

That's one part of the job. We are the ultimate diagnosticians. We review the history of every patient, look at test results, and understand the big picture in the context of each individual.

Our diagnosis can mean the difference between a big sigh of relief, or chemotherapy for cancer.

4. Pathologists don't know clinical medicine.

Many of us might not be up to date on the latest antibiotic treatment for an ear infection, but we absolutely need to be knowledgeable about nearly every aspect of medicine.

From psychiatric medications to new surgery techniques, we have to know it all in the context of each patient we diagnose.

This is especially relevant to autopsy. The knowledge gained from death is invaluable to the living. Pathologists have an enormous arsenal of experience, skills and tests at our disposal. We provide the most thorough physical exam anyone will ever get.

5. Pathologists only work with dead people.

Pathologists are diagnosticians. We can tell clinicians what's wrong with their patients when nobody else can. Yes, we can also autopsy the dead, but that's only a part of the job, and only if we choose to do so.

Most pathologists have at least 14 years of post-secondary education, and I'm constantly learning new things as an essential part of my job.

I am trained in forensic pathology, meaning I need to know everything from the social determinants of health for each person I meet, all the way to down to their DNA.

I testify in court as an expert witness, which means I have to communicate extremely complicated medical information to lay people, in a way that makes sense, under intense pressure. This is an art that even the most seasoned clinician finds challenging.

I teach students, from elementary school children to forensic pathology fellows. This takes skill, patience and the ability to pass on knowledge and expertise. I need to spark the most important human quality - curiosity.

I speak with surviving family members on a regular basis. This requires compassion and excellent communication skills. I am a better pathologist because of them; I learn and try to anticipate the questions they may have before I autopsy.

I advocate for my patients and their families. Sometimes I am the only one who knows the truth, and truth is the very heart of what I do. Medicine would not exist without pathology, and I am very honored to be part of this profession. I am a pathologist.