Current status and future trends in telepathology and digital pathology

Area of Science:

• Digital pathology and telepathology adoption in medical diagnostics.
• Healthcare technology integration in pathology services.

Background:

• Telepathology (TP) and digital pathology (DP) are transforming medical diagnostics.
• Understanding the current adoption and future outlook of these technologies in central India is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current status of telepathology and digital pathology in central India.
• To evaluate the future trends and adoption rates of TP and DP in the region.

Main Methods:

• A 12-question survey was developed with expert input.
• The survey was distributed via postal and online methods to 300 histopathologists.

Main Results:

• An 81% response rate (247 participants) was achieved.
• 98% of pathologists recognized the need for TP and DP, with 34% using digital images routinely.
• 48% utilized DP for teaching; 82% saw TP as valuable for expert opinions, with 51% anticipating high TP use in 5 years.

Conclusions:

• Pathologists in central India are receptive to TP and DP, emphasizing the need for training.
• Current use focuses on academic/educational purposes, with future applications anticipated in consultation and medico-legal areas.