There is a general impression amongst Pathologists that many clinicians do not understand the workings of a Pathology Department and that the provided clinical information, accompanying specimens, is incomplete.

Aim: To study the practice and attitudes of clinicians, we have assessed the information written in 500 consecutive requesting forms for histological examination, in each Pathology Department of four central Hospitals in the cities of Athens and Piraeus.

Method: The handfilled information of the requesting forms was assessed by the assistance of a checking list where information has been divided in three categories: a) Demographic. b) Name of clinic, requesting clinician with contact tel. number and date sent. c) Specimen description, anatomic site, investigation requested, clinical history, probable diagnosis.

Results: 75% of the requesting forms came from surgical clinics and 25% from clinics of Internal Medicine and subspecialties. Physicians provide more often adequate information when requesting an histopathological investigation in comparison with surgeons. Demographic details were supplied adequately except the patient’s serial code number which was recorded in only 44% (mean value) of the requesting forms. The name of the requesting doctor and contact number was recorded in 56.2% and 0.5% respectively. Information about clinical history in 40.7%, probable clinical diagnosis in 49.9%, special investigation requested in 35.1% of cases. It is concluded that Pathologist’s information is far from complete and in cases ambiguous. As for remedial measures it is suggested: a) The Pathologist must reform the requesting forms in use so that to meet his needs. b) Hospital’s administration has to introduce automated systems (Bar code system or addresograph) for recording patient’s personal data. c) Continuing Medical education programs for young clinicians, must include the topic of “how to use Medical Laboratories”.

Key words: Requesting form, Pathology Department, Quality control.

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