Medical Officers' Careers Guide: Pathology

Description

Pathology is the medical specialty concerned with the study of the nature and causes of diseases. It underpins every aspect of medicine, from diagnostic testing and monitoring of chronic diseases to cutting-edge genetic research and blood transfusion technologies.

Currently pathology has nine major areas of activity. These relate to either the methods used or the types of disease which they investigate. For further information on each discipline please click on one of the following: 

• Anatomical Pathology
• Chemical Pathology
• Clinical Pathology
• Forensic Pathology
• General Pathology
• Genetic Pathology
• Haematology
• Immunopathology
• Microbiology 

Entry requirements to Training Program

• General Registration
• Experience required – postgraduate year 2+

Overview of Training Program

• Completion of the Basic Pathology Science Exam [can do before commencing training]
• Five (5) year training program
• Exams:  Part 1 [mid 3 year] and Part 2 [mid 5th year]

What rotations are recommended prior to applying for training

• No particular rotations required 
• Obtain a sound grounding in medicine and surgery

 How to improve your chances of selection

• Relevant experience either as medical student, past professional life or appropriate undergraduate/postgraduate degree [eg B. Medical Sc]
• Become involved in Pathology Department eg. discuss a project with Director of Pathology

TPCH has current College accreditation as a secondment site for advanced training in General Pathology - Anatomical.

These questions will vary from Program to Program as thought to be most relevant. If you have any suggestions as to how the information on this site can be improved, please comment.  

Moderately competitive depending on chosen subspecialty

Medical Education Unit
Email:   TPCH-Medical-Education@health.qld.gov.au
Phone: 3139 4221

Editor:  Dr David Godbolt, Director of Pathology

Reviewed: March 2018