Abstract

Objective. This study aimed to understand the dynamics of including Pathologists’ Assistants in a surgical pathology department.

Methods. A qualitative ethnographic study employed covert participant observation and semi-structured interviews. Field notes and interview transcripts were descriptively analysed to identify categories.

Results. We developed three cross-cutting categories: (i) a testing welcome, (ii) recognising the added value, and (iii) open issues. Initially, disagreements existed regarding the integration of Pathologists’ Assistants, but over time, clearer role definitions promoted collaboration. The study revealed the recognised value of Pathologists’ Assistants, particularly in time-saving and professional growth opportunities.

Conclusions. Despite initial challenges, recognising the value of Pathologists’ Assistants is crucial for effective collaboration and optimal utilisation of their skills. Addressing unresolved issues, such as institutionalising their role and improving academic training, is essential. Creating a community of practice and fostering effective communication and professional development are key to successful integration. Further research and stakeholder collaboration are needed to integrate Pathologists’ Assistants into the healthcare system fully.

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Authors

Luca Ghirotto - Qualitative Research Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy

Ilaria Arpaia - Pathology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy

Mara Bortesi - Pathology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy

Fabiola Caggiano - Pathology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy

Marilena Ganassi - Pathology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy

Marialisa Marchetti - Pathology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy

Letizia Marchi - Pathology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy

Cristina Pedroni - Health Professions Department, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy

Mirco Ghirelli - Health Professions Department, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy

Massimo Costantini - cientific Directorate, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori di Milano, Milan, Italy

Simonetta Piana - Pathology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.

Copyright

Copyright (c) 2024 Società Italiana di Anatomia Patologica e Citopatologia Diagnostica, Divisione Italiana della International Academy of Pathology

How to Cite
Ghirotto, L., Arpaia, I., Bortesi, M., Caggiano, F., Ganassi, M., Marchetti, M., Marchi, L., Pedroni, C., Ghirelli, M., Costantini, M., & Piana, S. (2024). Pathologist assistants in a Pathology Department: perceptions of their changing role. Pathologica - Journal of the Italian Society of Anatomic Pathology and Diagnostic Cytopathology, 116(5). https://doi.org/10.32074/1591-951X-1050
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