An assistant pathologist studies the human body to understand diseases, but cannot make a diagnosis. They require specific training in math and science, and must be detail-oriented and possess strong communication skills. Assistant pathology jobs can be found in scientific, hospital, or laboratory settings, and involve examining specimens and tissue samples, performing autopsies, and dissecting and examining samples for chemical analysis. Pathology assistant jobs are in high demand.
An assistant pathologist (AP) studies the anatomy of the human body, specifically cells, tissues, organs and body fluids, to understand diseases. Assistant pathologist jobs are similar to pathologist jobs, but an assistant pathologist cannot make a diagnosis. The two physicians usually work closely together, and the AP consults with the pathologist and relies heavily on his further training.
In order to become an assistant pathologist, a specific training program must be completed. Most programs take between four and six years to complete and the student emerges with a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Most job seekers as assistant pathologists are good critical thinkers who have solid problem-solving skills. A PA must excel in math and science courses, as training will focus on subjects such as biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and physics. The successful assistant pathologist must be detail-oriented, possess strong communication skills, and be able to work well in collaboration or alone.
Most assistant pathology jobs fall into the scientific, hospital, or laboratory job categories. In science, these doctors might work in a mortuary, performing autopsies and preparing the body for viewing and burial. This includes a post mortem examination, where the AP studies the person’s medical history, takes photographs and writes an autopsy report.
In a hospital, pathologist assistant jobs can take on many different natures. Usually working in a team, the pathologist’s assistant examines specimens and tissue samples under a microscope, looking for specific diseases. The AP is also qualified to perform surgical procedures, but only a pathologist can diagnose an illness or disease. In a hospital, the assistant pathologist is responsible for regularly cleaning medical equipment and keeping it sterile. Pathologist assistant jobs require interaction with many different diseases; therefore, a PA must practice sanitary procedures and maintain safety precautions and standards to prevent the spread of germs.
Laboratory work for assistant pathologists involves dissecting and examining samples for chemical analysis. It is important that an AF accurately record these findings so that further studies can be performed. Laboratory work can also involve working with amoeba and organisms, and these studies can lead to discoveries about human anatomy.
Pathology is a field that is in high demand. Many hospitals, laboratories, funeral homes and government agencies prefer filling pathology assistant jobs because of the similarities in the duties of a PA and a pathologist.
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