Computers are as common today in the practice of anatomic pathology as the microscope. Yet, while most pathologists feel quite comfortable using a microscope, many are still uneasy with the terminology and inner workings of computers and their components. If you feel that the computer revolution somehow passed you by, this course will provide a basic introduction to computer hardware and software, as well as key informatics topics of importance to all pathologists. This course will help you “get up to speed” more rapidly than trying to learn this information by yourself.

The course will cover a variety of topics in a module format. Topics to be covered will include a basic introduction to desktop computer hardware (memory, storage devices) and software (data storage, operating systems, applications). Since no desktop computer is an island anymore, we will discuss the basics of networking, Ethernet, and the Internet. Databases sit at the core of every clinical information system, so you will be introduced to the basics of relational databases, including terminology, design, management, and data protection.

No discussion of computers in anatomic pathology would be complete without a section on digital imaging. You will learn what makes up a digital image, how to acquire one, and what makes one format different from another. The discussion will include a number of practical pointers which will be important in helping you to design and set up a digital imaging solution for your practice environment. Finally, the various forms of telemicroscopy (static, dynamic, and virtual microscopy), as well as various uses for each of these technologies, will be compared, contrasted, and critiqued.

This course will be offered every other year. This course is designed for any pathologist or resident. After completion of the course, attendees will feel much more confident conversing about their own computers, and interacting with institutional information technology staff. More importantly, attendees will be able to make intelligent decisions about the use of computers and computer related technologies in their practices. All participants will be provided with a detailed handout at the course.

(New Course) This course may be used for CME credits or SAMs credits.