Pathology Assistant Programs

Pathology is the study of bodily fluids and tissues to determine or monitor medical conditions.  Pathologists study different fluids and tissues and assist doctors in diagnosing medical conditions and diseases.
A pathologist’s assistant is a highly skilled and trained professional who performs surgical procedures on various specimens, along with performing forensic and medicolegal autopsies. They are also in charge of anatomic pathology procedures under the direct supervision of a licensed pathologist.  Pathologists’ assistants contribute to the efficiency of the laboratory procedures and the pathology practice, making them more cost-effective by performing tasks such as examining surgical specimens and carrying out autopsies.

Search for pathology assistant programs online. There are nearly eight pathology assistant programs accredited by the NAACLS (National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences). Degrees in biological or allied health science, with courses in anatomy, physiology and microbiology will prepare you for this field. In addition, if a traditional, on-campus program is not a feasible option for you, you can always go for the online pathology assistant programs.


Once you have fulfilled all the requirements for pathology assistant education, you will be prepared to take the pathologists’ assistant certification exam held under the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

An entry-level job usually requires a bachelor’s degree in medical technology, life science, or other pathology related field. From there onwards you can go on to pursue a master’s degree in pathology assisting, where you might be required to do clinical rounds and other forms of training. Education requirements are demanding and some colleges might even have minimum GPA requirement that students must maintain at all times.

The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) offers nearly 20 professional certificates for pathologists’ assistants. State-wise requirements vary at times but typically they all include a combination of education, experience and training. This certification is sufficient for three years, after which, you will be required to renew it. Different pathologists’ assistant programs can lead up to these certifications, according to your preferences. Certification is not a requirement but may enhance your employment chances.

The role of a pathology assistant may vary according to the scope of clinical practice. On a general basis, these professionals are required to carry out tasks such as the following:

• Ensure that all legalities are taken care of before conducting an autopsy
• Obtain medical records for review
• Consult with the pathologist in-charge to determine the techniques required during the procedure, including toxicology, coronary artery perfusion, cultures, enucleating etc
• Perform postmortem examinations, organ inspection and analyze the findings
• Photograph the body and individual organs, as per the requirement of the procedure
• Perform special procedures such as frozen sections, tumor triage and x-ray imagining
• Assure the provision of adequate supplies for the performance of relevant surgery and subsequent cleanliness of surgical equipment
• Assist in organizing pathology conferences and training sessions
• Manage budgets related to the pathology department
• Instruct pathology residents or interns and train them to take up positions in pathology departments

These duties can be divided according to the specific job title. Some of these relate to surgical or autopsy pathology while others are more relevant to the administrative aspect of a pathology department in any healthcare institution.

Forensic pathology is relatively different from traditional pathology. Individuals interested in pursuing a career in this field are recommended to understand the graphic nature and requirements of this job. As a forensic pathology assistant, you might have to deal with cadavers. Your primary job will revolve around crime scene victims and their bodies, either in whole or in parts. The foremost requirement therefore would be emotional strength and the ability to maintain calm while dealing with traumatizing crime scenes.

As far as the educational requirements go, most forensic pathology assistants need a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in a science or medicine related field. Two-year programs are also available in some cases where students are required to study subjects such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy and laboratory science. In addition to the educational requirements, all forensic pathology assistants need to be certified as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) as per the requirements of the American Association of Pathologists’ Assistants.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS ) classifies pathology assistants as part of the medical and clinical laboratory technologists and technicians category. The entire category is expected to grow at 22% from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all other occupations.  The pathology assistant salary figure as per the BLS  is $47,820.

Speech Language Pathology Assistant
Speech language pathology is a branch of pathology that deals with the evaluation and treatment of children or adults who have difficulty with speech or language. There are several speech language pathology assistant programs available that offer courses relating to speech and hearing sciences.

Keep in Mind!
Pathology assistants are required to be very organized, particular and efficient. Attention to detail is considered a very important aspect of this profession. In addition to that, these individuals frequently deal with advanced technologies. For this purpose, you will need to make sure you are always up to date with the latest technology and are willing to learn about newer technologies.

Note:

Keep in mind that these numbers relate to the job category of Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians, which is very similar to pathology assistant in terms of its job description and requirements. Deductions have been made based on these similarities. Exact median salary and job growth figures may vary.

States with the highest employment level in this occupation:

Source: bls.gov

How long does it take to become a Pathology Assistant?

If you have a keen interest in medicine, then a career as a Pathologists Assistant may be a good fit. To become a certified Pathologists Assistant, you will first need the required education. To obtain a bachelor's degree in the field will take you 4 years whereas a master's will take 2 years. A doctoral degree can take 4 to 5 years but may take more time depending on the program. Pathologists Assistants are not required to have a doctoral degree for most occupations in this field.

What are the requirements to become a Pathology Assistant?

To become a Pathologists Assistant, you are required to at least obtain a bachelor's degree in Biology or Nursing. You are then required to either get a master's degree in the same field or complete a two-year specialized training program. This will include courses on biology, pathology and anatomy. Students are also required to be certified as Pathologists Assistants by State Authorities. After the above-mentioned steps are completed, you can start work as a Pathologists Assistant.

How much can I make as a Pathology Assistant?

According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians make an Annual Median Wage of $52,330 and an hourly median wage of approximately $25, as of 2018. While there is no data available on the specific occupation of Pathologists Assistants, Medical Technicians are given similar training and have a similar job description.