Dr. Andrew Marc Churg – Pathologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Andrew Churg is a highly skilled Anatomical Pathologist, specializing in the laboratory diagnosis of disease. Working within the laboratory at a major hospital or diagnostic laboratory in Vancouver, BC, he collaborates closely with clinicians across various specialties. The facility where he practices is equipped with advanced diagnostic technology to ensure accurate and timely results, supporting clinical decision-making across multiple medical disciplines. His work is integral to the comprehensive healthcare services provided within the region, ensuring precise pathological assessments that inform patient management.

He graduated with an MD from the University of Chicago in 1973 and holds specialty certification as an Anatomical Pathologist. He has completed extensive post-graduate training and maintains the necessary certifications to practice as an Anatomical Pathologist in British Columbia. His qualifications and ongoing professional development underpin his expertise in diagnostic pathology and laboratory medicine.

Dr. Churg's professional philosophy emphasizes a commitment to diagnostic accuracy and precision. He utilizes advanced laboratory techniques and state-of-the-art technologies to deliver high-quality diagnostic reports. He values effective collaboration and communication with clinical colleagues to ensure optimal patient management and upholds the highest standards of laboratory quality assurance and patient safety. Dedicated to contributing to medical knowledge through research and education where applicable, he provides expert diagnostic services and reporting in English, supporting healthcare providers throughout Vancouver.

Dr. Churg provides a comprehensive range of diagnostic pathology services. For specific inquiries about test availability or consultative services, referring physicians should contact the laboratory directly.

Note: This list outlines key diagnostic areas. Pathology services support a wide spectrum of medical investigations. Detailed reports are provided to referring physicians for clinical correlation.

All pathology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Association of Pathologists (CAP-ACP) and relevant subspecialty guidelines. Reports and consultations are directed to referring physicians.

The diagnostic laboratory is situated in Vancouver's Fairview neighborhood, within a prominent hospital or medical center complex. It is conveniently accessible via public transit options including TransLink (SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines), Bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The facility is designed to meet accessibility standards and serves as a core diagnostic service within the healthcare institution. The laboratory's location near the Woodward's Building facilitates easy access for specimen drop-off and inquiries. For specimen submission or specific questions, referring physicians are encouraged to contact the laboratory's main office or their designated liaison.

How is accuracy ensured in pathology diagnoses made by Dr. Churg?

Pathology laboratories, where Dr. Churg works, operate under strict quality management systems. This involves numerous checks and balances, from specimen receipt to final report generation. Diagnoses are often based on established criteria, and for challenging cases, pathologists frequently consult with peers or seek second opinions. Continuous education and adherence to best practices are essential for ensuring the high level of accuracy expected in pathology reports provided by Dr. Churg.

What is the role of a Pathologist like Dr. Churg in healthcare?

A Pathologist, such as Dr. Churg, is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing diseases by examining tissues, cells, and body fluids. They analyze samples obtained from biopsies, surgeries, or autopsies under a microscope and perform laboratory tests to identify abnormalities, determine the nature of a disease (like cancer or infection), and assess its severity. Pathologists provide crucial information that guides treatment decisions made by other physicians. Dr. Churg, as an Anatomical Pathologist involved in the medical specialty concerned with the diagnosis of disease based on the laboratory analysis of bodily fluids such as blood and urine, as well as tissues, plays a vital role in patient care through accurate and timely diagnosis.

How long does it usually take to get pathology results from Dr. Churg's lab?

The turnaround time for pathology results can vary depending on several factors, including the type and complexity of the specimen, the number of specialized tests required (e.g., immunohistochemistry, molecular studies), and the overall lab workload. Simple biopsies might have results in a few days, while more complex cases or those needing extensive ancillary testing might take a week or longer. Your treating physician, who ordered the tests and receives the report from Dr. Churg, is the best person to provide an estimated timeframe for your specific results.

What kinds of samples does a Pathologist like Dr. Churg examine?

Pathologists like Dr. Churg examine a wide variety of biological samples. These include small tissue samples from biopsies (e.g., skin, colon, breast), larger surgical resections of organs or tumors, cytological preparations (like Pap smears or fluid samples from body cavities), blood smears, bone marrow aspirates and biopsies, and, in some cases, entire bodies during an autopsy. Each type of specimen provides unique information for diagnosing different diseases. As an Anatomical Pathologist involved in the medical specialty concerned with the diagnosis of disease based on the laboratory analysis of bodily fluids such as blood and urine, as well as tissues, Dr. Churg is skilled in interpreting these diverse samples.

How are the findings from a Pathologist like Dr. Churg used by other doctors?

The diagnostic report provided by a Pathologist like Dr. Churg is fundamental for patient care. It confirms or refutes clinical suspicions, classifies diseases (e.g., type and grade of cancer), identifies infectious agents, and can provide prognostic information. Surgeons use pathology reports to determine if a tumor was completely removed, oncologists to select appropriate chemotherapy, and general practitioners to manage chronic conditions. Essentially, Dr. Churg's findings form the basis for many critical treatment decisions.

Will I meet Dr. Churg directly as a patient?

While Pathologists like Dr. Churg play a critical role in patient care, they primarily work behind the scenes in the laboratory, analyzing patient samples and consulting with other physicians. It's generally uncommon for patients to meet their pathologist directly, unless the pathologist has a subspecialty that involves some direct patient procedures (e.g., some hematopathologists performing bone marrow biopsies, though this is often done by hematologists/oncologists). Your primary interaction will be with your treating physician who orders the tests and discusses Dr. Churg's findings with you.

910 10th Ave W, Vancouver General Hospital, Dept. of Pathology
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9

Laboratory Phone: (604) 875-4111 | Laboratory Fax: (604) 875-4797

The laboratory facility meets accessibility standards and is typically part of a larger hospital or medical center complex.

Dr. Churg is a licensed Anatomical Pathologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Pathology services by Dr. Churg are accessed via referrals for specimen analysis from primary care physicians or other specialists. Results and reports are communicated back to the referring doctor.

Verify Dr. Churg's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/352132/Churg%2CAndrew