CAP26 spotlighted several issues affecting pathology, from workforce and reimbursement challenges to laboratory regulation and new approaches to data and quality improvement.
Among the key conversations:
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Exploring a new workforce pathway: ABPath leaders encouraged training programs to explore Promotion in Place models and proposed a new certification pathway for internationally trained pathologists. The potential pathway could allow qualified pathologists trained outside the US to enter practice sooner, while maintaining certification standards and requirements for lifelong competency.
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Tackling major policy challenges: At the Advocacy Town Hall, CAP leaders discussed Medicare physician payment, CLIA solicitations, workforce legislation, local coverage determination reform, PAMA, and policies affecting pathology practices. Surgical pathology CPT codes were also a major focus, with Ronald W. McLawhon, MD, PhD, FCAP, emphasizing the importance of member participation in future surveys to accurately capture the work involved in these services.
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Looking ahead with the Pathologists Quality Registry: A. Joe Saad, MD, CPE, FCAP, announced the registry’s coming modernization, which will expand beyond quality reporting to support advocacy, quality improvement, research, interoperability, and other data-driven efforts across the specialty.
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Connecting through PathPAC: Contributors gathered at the annual PathPAC Thank You Reception and throughout the meeting to connect with colleagues, learn more about advocacy and policy issues, and recognize their collective efforts on behalf of pathology and patient care.
The takeaway: Across these conversations, a common theme emerged: Decisions affecting pathology are evolving, and pathologists play an important role in providing the expertise, data, and engagement needed to help shape them.