Virtual Remote Pathology Education in Support of Virtual Remote Gynecologic-Oncology Training

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Medical Education
• Pathology Subspecialties

Background:

• The global pathology workforce is insufficient for modern therapeutic demands.
• The Open Pathology Education Network (OPEN) was established to address this global shortage.
• The International Gynecologic Cancer Society (IGCS) identified a critical need for advanced pathology support in gynecologic-oncology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report on a pilot project by OPEN and IGCS to support gynecologic-oncology pathology education in a developing nation.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of a remote training model for subspecialty pathology.

Main Methods:

• Assembled a curriculum with open-source content and learning objectives.
• Implemented bidirectional case-sharing mentoring sessions.
• Utilized pretest/posttest digital slide assessments and tumor board observations.

Main Results:

• Pathologists significantly improved diagnostic scores (60% to 95%).
• Trainees reported increased confidence and diagnostic capabilities.
• Pathology-related issues at tumor boards decreased from over 50% to 0%.

Conclusions:

• The OPEN-IGCS collaboration model demonstrates the potential for effective remote subspecialty pathology training.
• This approach can augment the global pathology workforce and improve diagnostic accuracy.