Practice-Owned Pathology Services: Controversies and Pitfalls—The Use of Special Stains

Abstract

The US Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a study on June 24, 2013, calling for “action” to address higher use of anatomic pathology services by providers who “self-refer” (ie, those that have ownership positions in pathology labs). The report suggested that profit and not science drove utilization, including that of special stains. The relationship between luminal gastroenterology and pathology has been close since the beginning of flexible endoscopy and is inherent to excellent patient care and management.