Histopathology training in Europe: a lesson for other specialties?

Critical shortages of trained histopathologists limit the capacity of cancer and other clinical services. A survey of histopathology training in 18 European countries conducted by the European Union of Medical Specialists Section of Pathology/European Board of Pathology revealed a considerable shortage of both trained and trainee histopathologists in several of the responding countries. Demographic data indicate a high preponderance of trained histopathologists over 55 years of age and a notable proportion of part-time personnel. Although the training capacity in some countries has been increased, the immediate future of histopathology and the clinical services dependent on the specialty is worrisome. The histopathology workload is growing, and, in some countries, recruitment of trainees is insufficient for future needs. To avert the serious consequences for dependent clinical specialties and their patients, there should be a concerted European action to promote and expand histopathology training.