Pathologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing diseases by examining tissues, cells, and organs. They play a critical role in patient care by providing diagnostic information that influences treatment decisions. Pathologists work in various settings, including hospitals, laboratories, and research institutions. Their work involves a combination of laboratory analysis, clinical consultation, and sometimes research.
Eligibility
Educational Requirements
- Undergraduate Degree: A candidate must first complete an undergraduate degree (MBBS) from a recognized medical college. This typically takes 5.5 years, including a one-year internship.
- Postgraduate Degree: After obtaining an MBBS degree, the candidate must pursue a postgraduate degree in pathology (MD in Pathology or Diploma in Clinical Pathology). The MD program typically lasts three years, while the diploma program lasts two years.
Additional Requirements
- Medical Registration: Candidates must be registered with the Medical Council of India (MCI) or a state medical council.
- Entrance Exams: Admission to postgraduate pathology programs usually requires passing a national or state-level entrance exam, such as NEET-PG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Postgraduates).
Selection Procedure
- NEET-PG Exam: Candidates must appear for and secure a good rank in the NEET-PG exam, which is the primary entrance test for MD/MS and PG Diploma courses in India.
- Counseling: Based on NEET-PG ranks, candidates participate in a counseling process to secure a seat in a recognized medical college offering a pathology program.
- Merit and Quotas: Selection is based on merit, though there may be reservations or quotas for various categories (e.g., SC/ST/OBC, physically handicapped).
Job Opportunities
- Hospitals and Clinics: Pathologists are employed in hospitals and clinics, both in the private and public sectors, where they perform diagnostic tests and collaborate with other doctors.
- Laboratories: Many pathologists work in diagnostic laboratories, including private labs, government labs, and research institutions.
- Academia and Research: Opportunities exist for pathologists to work as faculty members in medical colleges or as researchers in biomedical research institutions.
- Forensic Pathology: Some pathologists specialize in forensic pathology, working with law enforcement agencies and medical examiners’ offices.
- Consultancy: Experienced pathologists may work as consultants, providing expert opinions on complex cases.
Institutes for Pathology Studies in India
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi
- Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore
- Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh
- Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune
- Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal
- King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow
- Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry
- Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC), New Delhi
- Lady Hardinge Medical College (LHMC), New Delhi
- Seth GS Medical College, Mumbai
These institutes are renowned for their medical programs and have well-established pathology departments offering comprehensive training and research opportunities