Pathologists’ Assistant Day

Pathologists’ Assistant Day is an American professional holiday dedicated to pathology assistants. These professionals examine laboratory specimens, assist with body examinations and autopsies, complete documentation, and more. The holiday is observed each year on April 14 to thank pathology assistants for their vital work.

History

The history of Pathologists’ Assistant Day has deep roots. The first event that significantly contributed to the development of the pathology profession occurred in 1922, with the founding of the American Society for Clinical Pathology (A.S.C.P.) in Chicago. Its main activities included training individuals with subsequent certification and providing information to attract more people to the profession. This is when the first pathology assistants began to emerge, assisting certified specialists in the meticulous work of examining bodies, finding causes of death, and analyzing lab specimens.

On April 14, 1972, the founders of the A.S.C.P. created the American Association of Pathologists’ Assistants (A.A.P.A.) to promote the profession by training new personnel who could later become certified pathologists and work in higher positions.

Interesting Facts

• Today, the A.A.P.A. includes about 2,000 members.
• More than 1,500 pathology assistants are trained each year.

How to Celebrate

Congratulate family and friends if they work or have worked as pathology assistants. Let them tell you more about their work. Would you consider working in this field yourself?

Spread the word about the holiday on social media. Let more people know about it!

When is Pathologists’ Assistant Day in 2025?

Pathologists’ Assistant Day is observed on April 14 each year.

Observations