The effect of changing technology on manpower in pathology and laboratory medicine

This article reviews changes in technology, the economics of reimbursement, and the health care delivery system and describes the cumulative impact of these trends on pathologists, pathologists-in-training, and pathology laboratories. While an increase in the number of pathologists-in-training is not anticipated, their training will be influenced by the new biology of medicine and emerging new technologies. Specialized preparation of graduate medical education trainees will create new opportunities for pathologists, enabling them to respond to new challenges associated with change. Those who also hold degrees in management will be prepared to assume leadership roles.