TBRHSC Pathologist Honoured

Dr. Joseph Wasielewski, Chief of Pathology and Medical Director of the Lab at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) received a prestigious award from the Cancer Quality Council of Ontario at the fourth annual Quality and Innovation Awards on December 2nd.

“All of this year’s winners have demonstrated outstanding contributions towards improving patient care by driving system innovations or improving the quality of cancer services in Ontario,” said Bob Bell, Chair, Cancer Quality Council of Ontario, in a release issued by Cancer Care Ontario. The awards are sponsored by the Cancer Quality Council of Ontario in partnership with Cancer Care Ontario and the Canadian Cancer Society – Ontario Division.

Dr. Wasielewski was recognized for his work in transforming laboratory testing for cancer patients at TBRHSC. His leadership allowed for better, safer, more timely access to laboratory testing for cancer patients through satellite blood collection, improved processes and standardized, evidence based synoptic pathology reporting for cancer patients. This transition led to a decrease in cancer diagnosis wait times from 22 to 7 days while improving the quality of pathology diagnostic reporting that is used to guide subsequent clinical care.

Since implementing synoptic reporting, pathologists at TBRHSC use special software to quickly and easily enter lab results into electronic checklists. The “synoptic” or standard checklists enhance patient safety by minimizing the risk for incomplete reports or confusion regarding results. The simple and efficient process also helps reduce diagnostic wait times. As a result, oncologists have quick access to thorough, consistent reports in creating the best possible treatment plan for patients.

“I am honoured to receive this award on behalf of the pathology team at TBRHSC,” said Dr. Wasielewski. “Synoptic reporting has been a valuable tool for our pathology practice. It allows us to report on cancer parameters in the most up to date and standardized way, which in turn helps facilitate appropriate patient management and foster a team-based approach to cancer care.”

“Our team deserves great credit for implementing these new reporting standards with enthusiasm and excitement, a demonstration of their dedication to our cancer patients in Northwestern Ontario. We are proud to be Canadian leaders in this regard. Ultimately this is about strengthening our program to provide the best possible cancer care for residents of Northwestern Ontario,” said Michael Power, Vice President of Regional Cancer Services and Diagnostics, TBRHSC.

The Northern Cancer Fund of the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation provided a $270,000 grant to support the synoptic reporting initiative.

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