Wither surgical pathology?
In July 2005, at the Annual conference of the Association for Pathology Chairs, Dr. Richard Horowitz reported that a survey had shown that new pathologists cannot interface with surgeons, cannot describe pathologic features, and cannot adequately sample resected specimens. The finding is sobering, yet not surprising. Formal examinations certainly measure a residents' grasp of theory, but they are one dimensional snapshots that do not show an individual in action. In any event, no one gets hired solely on the basis of test results. Only an interested and engaged faculty that is not overworked can intercede to help struggling performers at an early stage, and set high examples of professionalism and care.