Mandatory second opinion of pathologic slides: Is it necessary?

There are many aspects to diagnostic quality assurance in surgical pathology, each with its own specific value. However, in the current era of cost containment, the beneficial aspects of rereviewing pathology slides must be weighed against the resistance of third-party payers to offer reimbursement. Although it is possible that some compromise can be reached, guidelines regarding the second opinion review must be established jointly by clinicians and pathologists.