Clinical Scorecard: Dissecting Standards

At a Glance

Key Highlights

• Licensure of PAs ensures competency and accountability in gross examination.
• Errors in grossing can lead to misdiagnoses and significant medico-legal risks.
• Pathologists remain accountable for final reports regardless of who performs grossing.
• Licensure stabilizes hiring and protects the PA title.
• The demand for licensed PAs is strong, with increasing educational program outputs.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

• Ensure that only licensed PAs perform gross examinations to reduce errors.

Management

• Utilize licensed PAs to allow pathologists to focus on diagnostic responsibilities.

Monitoring & Follow-up

• Maintain ongoing competency through continuing education for licensed PAs.

Risks

• Unregulated grossing personnel can lead to significant liability for pathologists.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients undergoing diagnostic procedures requiring tissue examination.

Reliable diagnoses and treatment plans depend on standardized gross examination.

Clinical Best Practices

• Implement licensure for PAs to ensure high standards in gross examination.
• Regularly review and update training programs for PAs to align with evolving practices.
• Establish clear supervisory structures for PAs under pathologists.

References

• AAPA Resource Page on PA Licensure