ABSTRACT
Pathologists as a group are often regarded by many as 'the backroom boys', although increasingly other consultants and general practitioners do recognise the different disciplines within pathology. Pathologists often share common accommodation, general office facilities, a general manager and have similar problems with regard to receipt, storage and disposal of specimens. An important corporate role of the pathologist is to provide strategic leadership in the planning and delivery of the services. NHS trusts' principal statutory duties have until now been financial, however, now every trust is required to embrace the concept of 'clinical governance' so that quality issues are addressed both at an organisational and at an individual level. The work of a consultant microbiologist usually includes three major components, such as laboratory, clinical liaison and infection control. The pathologist is a valuable resource for clinical and medical directors and their potential contribution greatly exceeds their traditional narrow laboratory role.
