NWA Pathology
FAQ
1. What is pathology and how does it impact my care?
Pathology is the medical specialty focused on diagnosing disease by examining tissues, blood, and other samples. Pathologists play a critical role behind the scenes—providing the definitive diagnosis that guides your doctor’s treatment plan.
2. Do your pathologists ever see patients directly?
Most pathologists work in the laboratory and do not typically see patients face-to-face. However, their expertise is essential in diagnosing conditions like cancer, infections, and chronic diseases that directly impact patient care.
3. Why did I receive a bill from a pathology group?
If your doctor ordered lab work, a biopsy, or surgical testing, an NWA Pathology pathologist analyzed those samples. The bill reflects the professional medical services required to interpret your results and provide a diagnosis.
4. How accurate are pathology test results?
Pathology results are highly accurate and based on rigorous scientific standards. In many cases, multiple checks and advanced technologies are used to ensure precision. If needed, second opinions can also be requested.
5. How long does it take to receive pathology results?
Turnaround times vary depending on the complexity of the test. Routine lab results from NWA Pathology may be available within 48-72 hours, while more specialized tests (such as biopsies) may take several days.
6. What types of tests do pathologists perform?
Pathologists analyze a wide range of tests including bloodwork, biopsies, cytology (cell samples), and molecular diagnostics. These tests help detect diseases like cancer, infections, and autoimmune disorders.
7. Can I access my pathology results directly?
In many cases, yes. Patients can often access results through their healthcare provider’s patient portal. However, it’s best to review results with your physician to fully understand what they mean for your health.
8. What should I do if I have questions about my results?
It is best to contact the physician who ordered your test, as they can explain your results in the context of your overall health.
9. Does NWA Pathology work with local hospitals in Northwest Arkansas?
Yes. NWA Pathology partners with local hospitals in Benton, Carroll, Madison and Washington Counties. These include Washington Regional Medical Center and Northwest Medical Center-Springdale in the south, Northwest Medical Center-Bentonville and Mercy Hospital-Northwest Arkansas in the north, Mercy-Hospital Berryville and Eureka Springs Hospital in the east, and Siloam Springs Regional Medical Center in the west, among others.
10. Why is pathology important in diagnosing cancer?
Pathology is the gold standard for diagnosing cancer. A pathologist examines tissue samples to determine whether cancer is present, what type it is, and how aggressive it may be—information that is essential for determining the best treatment plan.