You’ve heard of digital pathology, but what is it exactly? We’ve put together the ultimate guide to help you learn more about this emerging field in healthcare.
If you’ve been keeping up with the healthcare industry, you’ve heard about telehealth. More specifically, you’ve probably heard about something called digital pathology.
It sounds like something important (and trust us, it is), but you’re probably saying, “What exactly is it, and how does it benefit me?”
We’re glad you asked.
This article is going to cover the basics of this growing field, and what it could mean to your future health. Keep reading to learn more.
What is Digital Pathology, Exactly?
There are few things as innovative and exciting as seeing science and technology work together, and this is one takes the cake.
Digital pathology, also known as telepathology, is the act of using super-sharp imaging in order for a remote pathologist to understand and diagnose a patient.
In summary, various scans of the sample are taken and sent to a pathologist in another region so that they can take a detailed look at the sample.
This process is huge because it allows pathologists to collect, research, and confirm if the sample is benign (harmless) or malignant (harmful) within a matter of just a day or two.
The patient is then able to be diagnosed quickly and given their next steps towards treating the problem if a treatment is necessary or available.
How Can it Really Help Us?
Using computer imaging to help solve pathological cases has quite possibly been the biggest stride made in modern pathology, and for many reasons.
Many other branches of science, including educational science, tissue-based research, drug development and tumor boards have all benefited from this technology.
It’s also been a big help in reducing laboratory expenses. Before this system came around, scientists had to do things the old-fashioned way and send the actual sample in a biohazard box to the pathology lab.
This meant days or even weeks before the results came through. By that time, not only could the patient’s symptoms progressively worsen, but the entire process of shipping and handling was quite costly.
With this new standard, shipping is unnecessary, as well as equipment such as microscope slides, so things are much more efficient and incredibly inexpensive compared to the old way.
It’s also surprisingly accurate compared to physical testing. The computer imaging is very detailed to allow scientists to see the sample as if they were looking under an actual microscope.
All in all, this technology has been revolutionary for science and for the world, and we can be sure that things will only get better from here.
Telehealth at its Finest
Digital pathology is an important part of the telehealth system, and we at Specialist Direct take it seriously.
We have the professionals you need and by using remote consulting it allows you to get your diagnostics at the lowest prices available.
We specialize in telecardiology, telepathology, and teleradiology, and can provide our services in hospitals, primary care clinics, and more.
Contact us today to find out more about what we can do to better serve your needs. We look forward to hearing from you.
