Pathology is the scientific study of the nature of disease and its causes, processes, development, and consequences.
Our pathology service includes the pathology laboratories and the cytogenetics laboratory, which together provide a comprehensive testing and screening service for our hospitals, as well as the communities of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.
Pathology laboratories
There are pathology laboratories at our three main hospital sites. Most of our specialist laboratory services are based at the Leicester Royal Infirmary.
Most routine test results are returned to your doctor (GP) within 24 hours of receipt of the sample in the laboratory – this includes all commonly requested blood tests. GP practices receive all of their routine pathology results electronically.
Biomedical scientists form the main part of the workforce of the laboratory services, with clinical services being provided by clinical scientists and medically qualified pathologists. Support is provided by a large team of medical laboratory assistants, as well as administrative colleagues.