A Labcorp survey of pathologists reports rising cancer rates are driving demand for digital pathology and genomic testing, but reimbursement and workforce shortages remain significant barriers to technology adoption.
A survey of 148 US pathologists found that rising cancer rates and workforce shortages are significantly impacting laboratory operations, according to the Pulse of the Pathologist report released by Labcorp.
The findings highlight how evolving technologies and ongoing reimbursement pressures are influencing the delivery of diagnostic services.
The report found that more than 90% of pathologists believe cancer rates are rising. Many respondents expect the introduction of multicancer early detection to further increase pathology volumes in the coming years. To manage these demands, 59% of pathologists identified digital pathology as the most impactful solution for addressing workforce shortages, and 49% pointed to remote slide reading as a key way to expand diagnostic capacity.
Financial barriers remain a significant hurdle for the adoption of new technologies. According to the report, 66% of pathologists cite the expense of artificial intelligence (AI) without reimbursement as a top barrier to adoption. Additionally, 44% of respondents expect reimbursement changes related to the Protecting Access to Medicare Act (PAMA) to have a significant impact on laboratory operations.
Despite these challenges, the survey indicates a shift toward advanced testing. Within three years, 66% of pathologists expect comprehensive genomic profiling to account for at least 75% of their testing portfolio, an increase from 55% today.
Pathologists continue to seek solutions that improve workflow efficiency, increase diagnostic capacity, and reduce operational friction, the report says. The findings suggest that digital pathology and practical applications of AI represent opportunities to support timely patient care and strengthen laboratory operations in an increasingly demanding environment.
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