Communicating Effectively in Surgical Pathology

Abstract

Surgical pathologists have two main communication tasks: (1) convey clear, accurate, unambiguous, and complete diagnostic information in a timely fashion; and (2) create a permanent record of findings to guide treatment and ensure accountability, a medico-legal duty. While it is true that the most beautifully composed report is worthless if the diagnosis is inaccurate, it is equally true that the most astute diagnosis, if communicated poorly, may be misconstrued. Because faulty comprehension can lead to clinical error, surgical pathologists must attend to all facets of report construction that can affect comprehension: design layout, the audience, format, style and language, word order, saying too little (incomplete) or too much (distracting), and using addenda effectively. This chapter provides ten practical tips for writing effective and error-free diagnoses, as well as communicating urgent and significant, unexpected diagnoses.

Effective oral communication is an equally important learned skill and has its own “rules of the road.” Surgical pathologists must know how to clearly articulate useful frozen section (FS) diagnoses in real time, and accurately document the exchange. After rendering a final report, the most valued pathologists are able, willing, and comfortable in discussing reported findings with nonpathologist clinicians.