Pathology training in informatics: evolving to meet a growing need

Abstract

Context: The mechanics of the practice of medicine in general and of pathology in particular is evolving rapidly with the rise in the use of electronic information systems for managing the care of individual patients, including the ordering and reporting of laboratory tests, maintaining the health of served populations, and documenting the full range of health care activities. Pathologists currently in practice and those in training need to acquire additional skills in informatics to be prepared to maintain a central role in patient care.

Objective: To summarize the evolving landscape of pathology informatics, with particular attention to the preparation of pathologists for this discipline and to the possible influence of the new subspecialty certification in clinical informatics.

Data sources: Most of the information discussed is drawn from the authors' direct experience with informatics, resident and fellow education, and the organizations supporting these activities in pathology.

Conclusions: The increasing reliance of medical practice on electronic health records and other clinical information systems is creating a greater need for physicians skilled in the use and management of these tools. The establishment of clinical informatics as a formal subspecialty in medicine will likely help secure a role for physicians within information management structures at health care institutions. Pathologists must actively engage in informatics to assure that our specialty is appropriately recognized and represented in this growing discipline.