Why new manpower studies are needed

Future pathology manpower needs have been the subject of recent debate. Despite pathology manpower studies that indicate a balance between supply and demand through the end of this decade, many view the future with uncertainty. These studies do not take into account larger issues that are radically altering the 1990s health care scene. To make reasonable projections about manpower needs, the author believes recent changes need to be examined and debated as well as the pathologist's role in the practice of medicine.