Program Philosophy and Goals

Pathology is a dynamic specialty that appeals to individuals with a strong sense of intellectual curiosity, the ability to communicate and collaborate with other physicians, and the desire to teach. Although the discipline is broadly categorized into “Anatomic” and “Clinical” Pathology, these boundaries are evolving and merging into less distinct spheres as new techniques and investigative methods find applications in the various realms of pathology. Most residents choose to pursue training in both areas, although the backgrounds and interests of some residents may lead them to train in one area or the other, often in conjunction with a subspecialty area (for example, combined training in Anatomic Pathology and Neuropathology).

The affiliates of the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) Pathology Residency Program enthusiastically welcome residents into this exciting and challenging postgraduate area. The program provides unlimited opportunities for the resident to pursue the specific goals & objectives of the residency and to become particularly expert in a select area(s) of anatomic and/or clinical pathology. Each member of the faculty is committed to sharing and expanding his/her knowledge and experience in conjunction with the teaching mission of the residency.

Residency Goals

This residency seeks to provide a well-rounded training experience, offering the educational opportunities and thoughtful guidance that allow a resident to achieve the following goals in order to develop meaningful and productive careers in the community, academia, industry, or other avenues. Specific objectives related to these goals are included in the document titled “Residency Competencies.”

*Gain diagnostic competence and the ability to provide appropriate and effective care in the context of pathology services, thereby serving patients with excellence and distinction.

*Acquire knowledge about established and evolving biomedical, clinical, and cognate (e.g., epidemiological and social-behavioral) sciences and the application of this knowledge to pathology.

*Adjust to the ever-changing medical environment and different practice settings through the ability to: learn from his or her own practice; evaluate and assimilate scientific evidence; contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge; investigate and evaluate his/her diagnostic and consultative practices; improve individual care practices; and support clinical colleagues as a knowledgeable, understanding, and respected consultant.

*Cultivate interpersonal and communication skills that result in effective relationships, information exchange and learning with other health care providers, patients, and patients’ families; teach, guide, and inspire students and other health care professionals, bridging the gap between the basic and clinical sciences through an integrated understanding of pathology.

*Establish and display a commitment to carrying out professional responsibilities, adherence to ethical principles, and sensitivity to a diverse patient population.

*Attain an awareness and responsiveness to the larger context and systems of health care and the ability to call on system resources to provide pathology services that are of optimal value; apply managerial techniques and administrative skills to offer the best service possible to patients and their physicians.