The emerging discipline of pathology informatics is reviewed, and its
placement as a subspecialty within the broader field of pathology and
laboratory medicine is proposed. Informatics concepts should guide the
development of the next generation of laboratory information systems.
Advanced laboratory systems will incorporate decision support leading
to improvements in quality and in interpretive reporting providing su
pport for clinical diagnosis and decision making. Training programs in
pathology should take into account the need for expertise in informat
ics and develop fellowships in this area to adequately prepare junior
faculty members for their future professional role.