Student essay
Critical role of pathology and laboratory medicine in the conversation surrounding access to healthcare.
Cullen M Lilley, Kamran M Mirza
Correspondence to Cullen M Lilley, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL 60153, USA
Abstract
Pathology and laboratory medicine are a key component of a patient’s healthcare. From academic care centres, community hospitals, to clinics across the country, pathology data are a crucial component of patient care. But for much of the modern era, pathology and laboratory medicine have been absent from health policy conversations. Though select members in the field have advocated for an enhanced presence of these specialists in policy conversations, little work has been done to thoroughly evaluate the moral and ethical obligations of the pathologist and the role they play in healthcare justice and access to care. In order to make any substantive improvements in access to care, pathology and laboratory medicine must have a seat at the table.
https://jme.bmj.com/content/early/2021/04/15/medethics-2021-107251