Improving the communication of urgent and significant unexpected diagnoses in anatomic pathology

To identify challenges, opportunities, and best practices for improving the communication of urgent and significant unexpected diagnoses in anatomic pathology, to enhance diagnostic excellence and patient safety.

The American Society for Clinical Pathology convened a group of eleven pathologists from diverse practice settings who discussed the challenges, opportunities, and best practices for improving communication of urgent and significant unexpected findings in anatomic pathology. Through structured discussions, the group identified the challenges such as variability in definitions of urgent and significant unexpected diagnoses and lack of standardized protocols. The group developed a set of best practices and strategies to support timely notification, clear documentation, and standardized communication processes within the healthcare teams to ensure appropriate patient management based on the communicated diagnoses.

Timely and effective communication of urgent and significant unexpected findings in anatomic pathology is essential for patient safety. Standardized definitions and protocols, combined with collaborative strategies, can improve diagnostic accuracy and clinical outcomes. Future research should focus on building an evidence base to support these practices and evaluate their impact on patient care.