You might have seen the pathology department in hospitals.
But ever wondered, what services does it provide to you?
Let us tell you. Pathology is a medical area involved in the “why” and “how” of diseases. To help doctors diagnose and treat them effectively.
At Main Street Medical Centre, we provide you with onsite pathology services for your convenience. So, timely and accurate diagnosis can be made possible.
We will explain the process of pathology diagnostics along with the background knowledge. So, when you go for a pathology test next time. You will be prepared for it.
Starting with the basics.
What is Pathology?
Pathology is an area of medical sciences involved in study of disease. (Pathos = suffering & Logos = Study). It investigates the type of pathogen (germ) causing the disease. & symptoms being shown due to it.
This field uses laboratory tests to examine tissues, blood, and other bodily fluids. These tests point out the abnormalities in cells and organs. & help in the diagnosis of all the important and emergent conditions. E.g. infections, inflammations, cancers, etc.
The staff of pathologists, collectors, medical scientists, etc work in pathology department.
Let’s see what it takes to be a pathologist.
Who is a Pathologist and What Does He Do?
Australia’s pathology workforce consists of around 24,000 people. They collect, process and report approx. 500 million pathology tests each year. (Source: Australian Govt. Department of Health & Aged Care)
A pathologist specialises in studying the samples of body tissues, blood, and other fluids. He understands the diagnostic test results and makes the reports by interpreting it.
Qualifications:
In Australia. Approx. 13 years of learning are required to start working in pathology services. Important qualifications include:
- A degree of medical doctor (5 years).
- Postgraduate in clinical medicine (2 years)
- Train in a specific discipline of pathology (5 years in an accredited pathology laboratory)
- Completion of several examinations and assessments
Duties:
Working in pathology services involves:
- Carrying out the important diagnostic tests
- Interpreting test results to identify specific conditions
- Finding the severity and progression of the disease
- Collaboration with general practitioners and specialists
- Providing diagnostic clarity for treatment planning
Let’s find out the importance and need to learn this skill set.
Why Do We Need Pathology Services?
Pathology services are important for both preventative care and accurate diagnosis.
Over 70% of healthcare decisions involve pathology investigations. & All cancer diagnoses are made by pathological evidence.
The main functions served by pathology diagnostics are:
- Diagnose a medical condition (the cause behind symptoms)
- Finding the progression/stage of a disease (to make the prognosis)
- Monitor a chronic condition over time
- Medical screening for timely detection of silent diseases (no symptoms)
- Assuring your sound health in routine medical checkups
- Detect the levels of a certain pharmaceutical in your blood
- Check your response to medicines and other treatments
These tests are used for almost all medical conditions. From acute to chronic & mild to severe. They contribute to improved long-term health outcomes. And offer a solid foundation for personalised treatment plans.
Keeping this dire importance in mind. There must be a proper system to manage the quality of the pathology services. So, your health cannot be put in any danger.
Australian Laws and Regulations for Pathology Diagnostics
Overall, in 2022–23. 17.4 million (67%) Australians accessed 196.9 million pathology services. (Source: Australian Govt Institute of Health & Welfare). It means more than half of the Australian population is at risk. If there is any compromise on the quality of these services.
The National Pathology Accreditation Advisory Council (NPAAC) regulates the vast network of pathology services. It sets the standards of pathology diagnostics & keeps a check on all laboratories.
So, it is important to choose an accredited laboratory for your pathology diagnostics. So, you can get quality care without any fear or doubt.
Now let’s learn about the major areas covered in pathology services.
8 Main Disciplines of Pathology
There are 8 main areas of activity in pathology. Here is the brief info about all of them.
Name | Description |
Anatomical Pathology | Tissue diagnosis of disease e.g. biopsy samples |
Chemical Pathology | Detects the presence of a certain chemical in the body e.g. medicines, electrolytes, enzymes, proteins, vitamins, hormones, tumour markers, poisons, and drugs |
Forensic Pathology | Medico-legal tests or techniques involved in detection of crime e.g. DNA analysis, fingerprints, bloodstain patterns, toxicology, microscopy, etc. |
Genetics | Diagnostic tests for genetic conditions. Involves studying chromosomes, DNA, and biochemical markers |
Haematology | Deals with diseases affecting the blood E.g. transfusion & compatibility tests & blood works |
Immuno-pathology | Testing the functioning of immune system e.g. allergies and autoimmune diseases |
Microbiology | It detects the microorganisms in the body. i.e. bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites Important for infectious disease & their treatment |
General Pathology | Covers all areas of pathology at a general level |
These branches work together to cover the full spectrum of disease diagnostics. They involve a series of important tests & other procedures. Let’s take a look at most important ones.
Common Types of Pathology Tests
Understanding pathology tests is necessary to know their importance & timely need. We have compiled the basic info about common tests that you should know.
- Blood Tests
Blood tests are used to analyse components like red and white blood cells, haemoglobin, cholesterol, and glucose levels. They are used to monitor organ function and detect abnormalities.
They are used in inflammatory conditions, infections, liver & kidney function etc.
- Urine Tests
They check important constituents of the urine to detect any abnormality. Urine tests are non-invasive. & provide valuable health insights through a simple procedure.
They are used for kidney issues, UTI infections, diabetes, etc.
- Swab Tests
Swabs are collected from the throat, nose, or skin to identify bacterial or viral infections.
These tests are used for contagious illnesses like strep throat, flu, covid, etc.
- Biopsies
Biopsy involves getting a small tissue sample to study the cells under a microscope. It detects any abnormality in their number or structure.
Biopsies are commonly used for cancer & other tumours.
Cost of Pathology Services
In Western Australia, Medicare provides a subsidy on the expenses of important pathology tests. You can get the list of tests covered by it through MBS website.
It only covers the tests:
- Relevant to your medical condition
- Suggested by a health professional
At Main Street Medical Centre, we accept subsidised fee amounts for Medicare-registered patients. You can find our complete fee schedule here.
Now, let’s move some rules of thumb to remember. When you have a due pathology diagnostic procedure.
What Do You Need to Do Before a Pathology Test? Simple Tips to Follow
Proper preparation will keep you calm & comforted during the procedure. & increase the accuracy of results. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Ask maximum questions to your doctor and clear out any confusions beforehand.
- Inform your doctor about the medications you are taking. Because certain drugs can affect your test outcomes.
- Some blood tests require fasting for 8–12 hours. E.g. glucose or cholesterol tests. Make sure to not eat anything in this time. So, your results do not get affected.
- Ask your doctor about any specific preparation and strictly follow it.
- Follow the suggested procedure for the collection of your blood or any sample.
- Let collection staff know if you have not followed any instructions before the test.
Always be prepared to avoid the repetition of the test. & get an accurate & timely diagnosis of your disease.
Summary
Pathology is an essential part of modern healthcare. It provides insights to help in diagnosis, treatment, and screening of diseases.
Pathology diagnostics involve several tests & procedures like blood exams & tissue biopsies. It is needed in routine checkups as well as in specific disease investigations. Basic knowledge of pathology procedures will prepare you to get their maximum benefit.
Searching for Pathology Diagnostics Near You?
Get Onsite Pathology Services at Main Street Medical Centre
At Main Street Medical Centre, we’re committed to make healthcare accessible and personalised for you. Our onsite pathology services provide you with timely & reliable test results without any inconvenience.
Our experienced and compassionate team collaborates to plan the most effective healthcare plan for you.
