Introduction : To grasp what kind of problems exists in order to solve the shortage of pathologists, we conducted a survey with special focus on the condition of facilities with single pathologists. We also considered whether the use of virtual slide technology is a viable option in mitigating the shortage of pathologists.
Methods : The survey was conducted at the 58th Autumn Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society of Pathology using questionnaires. Interviews were also obtained with pathologists who use virtual slides
Results : The percentage of facilities with single pathologists was approximately 30%, and these facilities had the highest rates of using virtual slides for remote pathology consultations. Regardless of the number of pathologist at a facility, outside consultation was often obtained with difficult cases. Although pathologists working alone expressed anxiety over diagnosing cancer, consulting other facilities appeared to be difficult.
Conclusion : In order to reduce the anxiety of pathologists working alone and to raise the accuracy of cancer diagnoses, a mechanism by which pathologists can consult each other is required. Developing a network for pathologists for such consultations using virtual slides is felt to be important in primary care.