Dr. Smitirupa Mishra, Consultant Pathologist, Sparsh Hospital, Bhubaneswar

In pathology training, we often chase the complex—rare diagnoses, advanced markers, molecular correlations. But somewhere along the way, the basics quietly get sidelined.

How many residents truly take ownership of:
• Making a good smear
• Understanding staining nuances
• Knowing how a sample actually runs through the lab
• Recognizing pre-analytical and analytical errors

These aren’t “technician’s jobs.” These are the foundation of *our* interpretation.

A poorly made slide can mislead even the most experienced eye.
A suboptimal stain can mask crucial morphology.
A mishandled sample can invalidate the entire report.

Yet, these are often learned passively—or worse, ignored.

On the other hand, residents who actively engage in:
• Slide preparation and staining techniques
• Internal audits and quality control processes
• NABL protocols and documentation
• Root cause analysis of lab errors

…develop a completely different level of confidence and clarity.

They don’t just report—they *understand*.

Because in real practice, especially when you run or oversee a lab, no one separates “technical” from “diagnostic.” It’s all one continuum.

The sooner we bridge that gap during residency, the smoother the transition into independent practice becomes.

Master the basics. Respect the process.
That’s where good pathology begins.

Do you feel this gap exists in current pathology training?
How important were these “basic” skills in your own journey?
Any advice for residents on what they should focus on early in their training?

Would love to hear your perspectives.
Post in comments below.