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Pathology as Primary Care

Why the "quiet backbone of medicine" is so much more than a medical specialty

By Kamran Mirza 10/17/2025 Opinion 5 min read

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  1. Pathology accounts for 70-80 percent of clinical decisions.

  2. Pap smears and HPV tests have significantly reduced cervical cancer rates.

  3. Pathologists make a crucial impact during public health crises like COVID-

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  • Only 2 percent of US physicians are pathologists, but their role is foundational.

  • Pathology operates as both a primary care service and a subspecialty.

  • Lack of access to pathology services can lead to missed diagnoses, especially in resource-poor areas.

  • Pathology seamlessly integrates scientific discoveries into patient care.

    • About the Author(s)

    Kamran Mirza

    Professor of Pathology and Director of the Division of Education Programs, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States.

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