University Pathologists - Frequently Asked Questions
Q. WHY DO SOME PATHOLOGY REPORTS TAKE A LONGER TIME TO BE FINALIZED
THAN OTHERS?
A. Approximately 90% of biopsies are examined and diagnosed between 24 to 48 hours from
arrival. Some complex cases may require additional testing and intradepartmental
consultation that could extend the turnaround time to additional 48-72 hours. Regardless
of the reason for delayed diagnosis, the submitting physician is promptly contacted and
notified of the complexity of the case. A preliminary interpretation is attempted in every
case.
Most of the large resection specimens are fixed in formalin overnight and processed the
next day, for an average turnaround time of 72 hours for cases not needing special
histochemical or immunohistochemical stains.
Q. CAN YOUR OFFICE PROVIDE THE PATIENT'S STATISTICS?
A. We provide a wide range of services including: a complete list of patients surgically
treated by a particular physician during a specified period of time, the list of patients
carrying a specific diagnosis, time intervals and average follow-up time between
diagnostic procedures, demographic data search. All requested patient information is
considered confidential under the HIPPA regulation and accordingly, is provided only to
the treating physician.
Q. CAN YOUR OFFICE ASSIST WITH BILLING ISSUES?
A. Our Pathology office is staffed with highly qualified full-time administrative
assistants that promptly address any billing question that either patients or their
physicians may have. For a complete list of participating insurance companies see the billing page.
Please contact us if
your patient's medical insurance company is not on the list.
Q. CAN PATHOLOGY SLIDES AND REPORTS BE MAILED TO OTHER HEALTHCARE
INSTITUTIONS FOR REVIEW?
A. Slides, tissue blocks and reports can be forwarded to other medical centers upon a
written request by either patient or patient's physician. A 24h notice is necessary for
the adequate handling of the material. The histologic slides and paraffin blocks must be
returned to our department after the review process is completed.
