We’re already racing towards the end of summer (and what a year it has been so far!), which means The Pathologist is about to reach its third anniversary. And, looking back, I never could have imagined what a personally gratifying and exciting journey it would be. We have addressed some fundamental (sometimes controversial) topics that have provoked passionate reaction and conversation among you – a group of professionals often considered by your medic counterparts to be silent and non-communicative! As editors, we have had the immense privilege of working with some truly inspiring people. We’ve spoken with professionals who care deeply about what they do and who are contributing to the dramatically changing face not only of diagnostic medicine, but of patient care and the overall healthcare machine. Your profession is arguably going through one of the most substantial transformations in decades, and we have been honored to tell the stories of those who are working hard to make their mark – challenging convention but also retaining the important lessons of the past.
To that end, we tackle a big issue in this month’s cover feature by questioning where autopsy fits into modern diagnostic medicine, if indeed it fits at all. Run a quick search for autopsy articles online, and you will see gloomy words such as “endangered,” “extinct,” “miserably low,” associated with the practice. It is in huge decline globally. To some, the fall is deemed acceptable: though not overly costly, autopsy is sometimes regarded as non-critical and therefore a great way to save time and money in an already overstretched pathology service. And that seems somewhat reasonable, but not when the practice still holds an immense amount of value. This month, we speak with experts who feel the same way, but recognize the need to seek new and creative ways to conduct the procedure. As we progress through the rest of this year and beyond, we will continue to address the big topics that are shaping and challenging your profession – it is our ongoing commitment to you. One aspect that will change, however, is the face that you will see atop this page and the masthead. I am delighted to announce that Michael Schubert will be taking up the enviable position of Editor, working with me and my editorial colleagues, Rich Whitworth and Roisin McGuigan, to better serve you and to continue to grow and support The Pathologist community. It has been a real honor to serve as Editor of this publication; heartfelt thanks to you all for your continued support and for sharing your opinions, your work and your inspirational stories. I look forward to continuing this exciting journey with you.
Fedra Pavlou
Editor
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