A Study on Public Perception of Pathology; “Behind the Paraffin Curtain’’
European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine,
2023, Volume 10, Issue 1, Pages 1410-1415
Abstract
Introduction: Pathologists have always been an integral part of the healthcare system striving to deliver quality care to patients. However, the speciality has mostly become invisible, with only certain clinical specialities receiving attention from the public population. Objectives: To analyse the public perception of Pathology and Pathologists among the general population. Material and Methods: In our survey with 150 respondents, the questionnaire used was developed and approved by Manitoba Research Ethics Board, USA. We used Pearson’s chi square test to evaluate the association between correct responses and if respondent had undergone the procedure. Two-sided p values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Pathology was identified as a medical speciality by only 4.7%. Only 9.3% of the particiapants recognised that it would take more than 8 years to become a Pathologist. The most commonly undertaken test with the identified specialists were Pap test (gynaecologist), breast biopsies or surgical excisions (surgeons / oncosurgeons), blood tests (medical laboratory technicians). For the participants who underwent pap test/biopsy p value and chi-square test were applied, which was statistically significant [< 0.05]. Conclusion: Implementing pathologist-patient interaction would definitely help patients understand their disease, help them make more informed decisions, and also provide an opportunity to change our image as a speciality
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