Patient-centered Pathology: Empowered by Digital Pathology and AI

Introduction: At Moffitt Cancer Center, we believe patients and families are essential partners in care. Guided by the principles of dignity, information sharing, participation, and collaboration, patient-centered care leads to better outcomes. Pathology plays a foundational role in cancer care by providing critical insights that drive diagnosis and treatment. This presentation explores how digital pathology (DP) and augmented intelligence (AI) not only enhance precision but also elevate the human experience-honoring the courage of patients and the dedication of the clinical, technical, and business teams behind the scenes.Methods: Through a combination of personal narrative and literature review, this presentation explores how patient stories inspire innovation in pathology. One presenter - a cancer survivor, and pathology business leader- shares his experience with DP and AI implementation, emphasizing the role of laboratory business intelligence and big data in driving institutional success. The co-presenter, a practicing pathologist and leader in DP and AI, reflects on a patient who profoundly shaped her approach to practice and professional growtht, and inspired her book <em>The Healing Art of Pathology</em>. Together, they discuss the evolving practice and various impactful ways of practicing patient-centered pathology and how technology enables deeper connection and impact.Results: 'In the darkest moments of my diagnosis, I discovered not just the power of treatment, but the power of connection. As I sat in my hospital room-equipped with smart technology that kept me informed and connected, I realized how essential information, dignity, and compassion are in healing. Today, as a healthcare leader, I carry that perspective with me. My journey fuels my mission: to ensure pathology and technology work together to empower patients. Digital pathology and AI are not just tools-they're bridges between the data and the deeply human stories behind every slide.' <em>The Healing Art of Pathology</em> illustrates how meaningful engagement between pathologists and patients can be life changing. Examples are used to showcase DP & AI enhancing diagnostic precision, biomarker analysis, workflow efficiency, reporting, and therapy selection - ultimately improving outcomes and strengthening the bond between science and humanity in cancer care. Conclusion: Patient-centered pathology is about more than precision-it's about connection, empowerment, and healing. DP and AI amplify, rather than replace, the human element of care. By integrating advanced technology with empathy and purpose, we move pathology from behind the scenes to the forefront of the patient experience-shaping a more connected and compassionate future in cancer care.

Learning Objectives: 

1. To explore how patient stories inspire innovation in pathology.
2. To emphasize the role of laboratory business intelligence and big data in driving institutional success.
3. To highlight DP & AI can enhance diagnostic precision, biomarker analysis, workflow efficiency, reporting, and therapy selection – ultimately improving outcomes and strengthening the bond between science and humanity in cancer care.