College of pathology launched

Minister Dr Douglas Mombeshora said pathology was fundamental to modern medical practice and healthcare.
“For too long, pathology has been seen as a backroom service,” he said.

“The launch of the College of Pathology could not have come at a better time. It is through perceived innovative objectives of the college that we can achieve a modernised pathology service.”

He said pathology services were at the heart of health care provided to patients and the community.
“They underpin the quality and cost effectiveness of health care,’ Dr Mombeshora said.

Pathology testing services help in the early detection, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of many diseases such as cancer, heart and diabetes.
ZCP president Dr Hilda Matarira said the college was a professional body that sought to advance the science and practice of pathology.

“The activities of ZCP will advance the science and practice of pathology for the benefit of patients and the improved understanding of disease worldwide,” she said.
“It’s not a trade union. It is committed to setting and maintaining professional standards and to promote excellence in the teaching and practice of pathology.”

ZCP is a professional organization of practitioners working in clinical laboratories, universities and industry in various disciplines of pathology.
ZCP was created in 2009 after it was transformed from the Zimbabwe Institute of Medical Laboratory Scientists which was formed some 33 years ago.