In most laboratories, an organized program of education is adjusted to meet the interests of each resident. Clinical Pathology rotations are viewed as an interlocking set of assignments, with continual attention to quality control, laboratory management, and the integration of laboratory services with clinical functions in the hospital. As the residents progress through the series of related Clinical Pathology experiences, they take on more consultative and decision making responsibilities. For the remaining time in the program, schedules are very individualized. A large segment of the third year is usually spent in special areas of Anatomic Pathology, although at least one rotation in Clinical Pathology in a section of particular interest to the resident is often included.
Most residents continue to work at building skills in general surgical pathology.
For those who have an interest in a subspeciality within Anatomic or Clinical Pathology, an early rotation in the third year sets the stage for substantial responsibilities and opportunities in this special field during the following years. This affords the trainee the personal satisfaction of becoming the authoritative expert in a particular subject, to whom colleagues will turn for opinions. For other residents, schedules are based upon logical sequences of exposure in a progressive educational experience. The early part of the fourth year is devoted to the completion of the core of rotations in clinical and anatomic disciplines. In the latter part, each individual structures their education entirely according to personal career goals, and may begin a comprehensive review in anticipation of taking the pathology board exam.