Best Pathologists in Chattanooga

Introduction to Pathology in Chattanooga

Definition and Scope of Pathology

Pathology is a medical specialty that focuses on the study of diseases and their effects on the human body. In Chattanooga, as in other cities, pathologists play a significant role in healthcare by examining tissues, cells, and bodily fluids to diagnose diseases and guide treatment decisions.

Pathologists are often referred to as the 'doctor's doctor' because they provide essential information to other healthcare providers. Their expertise is invaluable in determining the nature and extent of diseases, which is fundamental for accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans.

Overview of Pathology Services in Chattanooga

Chattanooga offers a range of pathology specialties, as evidenced by the data provided. These include Anatomic Pathology, Clinical Pathology, Cytopathology, Immunopathology, Hematopathology, and Dermatopathology. This diverse array of specialties ensures that patients in Chattanooga have access to comprehensive pathology services.

Common pathology procedures in Chattanooga include tissue biopsies, blood tests, and microscopic examinations of cells. These tests are essential for diagnosing various conditions, from cancer to infectious diseases. Pathologists in Chattanooga, such as Dr. Philip Pollock and Dr. Andrew Laramore, are skilled in interpreting these tests and providing accurate diagnoses.

Selecting a Pathologist in Chattanooga

Factors to Consider

Board Certification and Specializations

• Importance of American Board of Pathology certification
• Review of subspecialties like Cytopathology and Immunopathology

Hospital Affiliations

• Consideration of affiliated hospitals such as CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga
• Importance of hospital reputation and accessibility

Experience and Education

• Evaluation of educational background, including medical school and residencies
• Consideration of years of practice and specialized training

Resources for Researching Pathologists

Online Directories and Rating Platforms

• Use of platforms like Healthgrades for doctor information and ratings
• Importance of reading patient reviews and star ratings when available

Referrals from Primary Care Physicians

• Seeking recommendations from trusted healthcare providers
• Discussing pathology needs with your primary care doctor

Top-Ranked Pathologists in Chattanooga

Dr. Philip Pollock

Credentials and Ratings

• Board certified by the American Board of Pathology
• 5-star rating with 21 patient reviews
• Specializes in Anatomic Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Cytopathology, and more

Education and Experience

• Graduated from University of Missouri School of Medicine
• Completed fellowship at University of Missouri
• Over 40 years of experience in the field

Practice Information

• Affiliated with CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga and CHI Memorial Hospital Hixson
• Contact number: (423) 495-8703

Dr. Andrew Laramore

Specializations

• Anatomic & Clinical Pathology
• Cytopathology
• Hematopathology
• Cancer Pathology

Education and Training

• Fellowship at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Residency at University of North Carolina School of Medicine
• MD from Emory University School of Medicine

Professional Information

• Board certified by the American Board of Pathology
• Affiliated with CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga
• Contact number: (423) 495-8703

Dr. Ronald Oxenhandler

Areas of Expertise

• Anatomic & Clinical Pathology
• Dermatopathology
• Cytopathology
• Cancer Pathology

Educational Background

• MD from University of Missouri School of Medicine
• Residency at University of Missouri
• Extensive experience since 1972

Practice Details

• Board certified by the American Board of Pathology
• Affiliated with CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga
• Contact number: (423) 495-8703

Additional Considerations for Choosing a Pathologist

Importance of Communication

Understanding the pathologist's role

• Discuss how pathologists contribute to diagnosis and treatment
• Explain the collaborative nature of pathology with other medical specialties

Interpreting pathology reports

• Highlight the significance of clear communication from pathologists
• Suggest asking your primary care physician for help in understanding reports

Insurance and Accessibility

Verifying insurance coverage

• Advise readers to check if pathology services are covered by their insurance
• Suggest contacting insurance providers for specific coverage details

Considering location and availability

• Note the importance of choosing pathologists affiliated with accessible hospitals
• Highlight the convenience of pathologists with multiple hospital affiliations

Subspecialties in Pathology

Overview of pathology subspecialties

• List common subspecialties found in Chattanooga (e.g., Cytopathology, Immunopathology)
• Explain how subspecialties can affect the choice of pathologist

Matching subspecialties to specific health needs

• Advise readers to consider their specific health conditions when choosing a pathologist
• Suggest consulting with primary care physicians about relevant subspecialties