Why Are Pathology Tests So Important?
From birth through every stage of life, laboratory testing plays a crucial role in:
- Preventing disease
- Diagnosing illness
- Monitoring treatment
- Managing chronic conditions
In fact, it’s estimated that 70% of all medical decisions rely on lab test results.
Who Are Pathologists?
Pathologists are specialist medical doctors trained to investigate disease. After medical school, they complete an additional four years of training in pathology.
They focus on:
- Understanding the cause and effect of disease
- How to diagnose it accurately
- How to guide treatment decisions
Pathologists work closely with your doctor and often specialise in areas like:
- Haematology (blood disorders)
- Microbiology (infections)
- Histopathology (tissue diagnosis)
What Happens Before Your Sample Reaches the Lab?
- Your doctor decides that a test is needed.
- A specimen (e.g. blood, urine, tissue) is collected by your doctor or an Ampath nurse.
- A request form accompanies your sample.
- At the Ampath branch:
- Your details and medical aid info are confirmed.
- The specimen is labelled and sent to the lab.
- The lab receives and prioritises the sample based on urgency.
In some cases, your doctor may consult a pathologist first to help decide which tests are appropriate.
What Happens Inside the Lab?
- Your sample is handled by trained medical technologists under the supervision of a pathologist.
- Pathologists:
- Review results
- Validate accuracy
- Interpret complex findings
- Help ensure correct diagnosis and follow-up
- If a tissue biopsy was taken, it is reviewed directly by a pathologist under a microscope.
Understanding Your Lab Report
- Results are checked and signed off by a pathologist.
- They’re sent to your doctor:
- Securely, and
- Promptly, especially if urgent.
- Your doctor will discuss the findings with you and explain any follow-up needed.
The Pathologist’s Role in Your Health
Even though you may never meet them, a pathologist is behind the scenes helping guide your diagnosis and care.
They:
- Recommend the most suitable tests
- Ensure your sample is processed correctly
- Interpret your results
- Support your doctor with clinical insight
- Provide rapid communication when results are urgent
How is Pathology Billed?
- You’ll receive an Ampath bill for lab services.
- A price list is available at all branches, or you can request a quote in advance.
- Sometimes, extra tests may be added if they are essential for a clear diagnosis — even if not originally requested.
If you're on medical aid:
- Your account is submitted directly to your scheme
- Some tests might not be fully covered
- You may need to pay a co-payment or balance
-Always check your pathology benefits with your medical aid.
Did You Know?
Ampath employs over 150 pathologists across South Africa.
Whether it’s a routine blood test or a cancer diagnosis — your results are reviewed by some of the most experienced diagnostic experts in the country.