The Histopathology service undertakes in excess of 28,000 histological samples per annum. Including:

a. formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissue;

b. non Gynaecological cytology: including fine needle aspirations, urines, body fluids.

To ensure prompt diagnosis of medical conditions and to support timely referral for treatment it is important the reporting turnaround times are in line with the proposed Royal College of Pathologists Key Performance Indicators.

Current situation.

The majority of examinations requiring a pathologist report are currently undertaken by internal Trust consultant histopathologists, who offer a high quality timely service when issuing reports. When we are unable to recruit histopathologists, in times of histopathologist's sick leave or during high demand for histopathology services, the backlog of reporting can increase and reporting turnaround time is lengthened, thus compromising patient care. In addition, extra lists to reduce waiting times and deal with the increased demand for examinations generate extra reporting, which at times can also create a backlog.

As Histopathology is a core component on the majority of patient pathways, any delays in reporting can effect patients' return appointments to their clinician — potentially compromising the 18 week RTT target.

The perceived benefits of a remote reporting service are:

Clinical Benefits.

— Capacity and flexibility to provide a first class histopathology service when absentee levels are high, in instances of annual leave and when there are vacant posts.

— Meet or exceed 18 weeks RTT target.

— In house Histopathologists able to prioritise clinical lists during periods of annual leave.

— Any back log of reporting would be identified.

— Extra additional lists would be reported at a set/known cost.

— Auditable Quality Assurance.