About
Dr. Barry Sawka is a highly skilled Anatomical Pathologist, specializing in the laboratory diagnosis of disease. Working within the laboratory at The Medical Centre in Stratford, ON, he collaborates closely with clinicians across various specialties. The Medical Centre is situated in a central laboratory in Stratford's neighborhood, near a major medical campus, and is accessible via local public transit. The laboratory facility meets accessibility standards and is typically part of a larger hospital or medical center complex. It provides a state-of-the-art diagnostic environment to support accurate and timely results, essential for guiding clinical decision-making across a broad range of medical disciplines.
Dr. Sawka obtained his Medical Degree from the University of Alberta Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry (Canada). With over 34 years of experience as an Anatomical Pathologist since 1990, he brings extensive expertise to his practice. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring adherence to high professional standards and ongoing certification requirements.
Dedicated to diagnostic excellence, Dr. Sawka maintains a strong commitment to accuracy and precision in laboratory analysis. He employs advanced laboratory techniques and technologies, fostering effective collaboration and communication with clinical colleagues to optimize patient management. Upholding the highest standards of laboratory quality assurance and patient safety, he contributes to the advancement of medical knowledge through continuous professional development and, where applicable, research and educational activities. Dr. Sawka provides comprehensive diagnostic reporting in English, supporting patient care in Stratford and surrounding regions.
Dr. Sawka 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 Ontario (CPSO) and relevant Canadian Association of Pathologists (CAP-ACP) and relevant subspecialty guidelines. Reports and consultations are directed to referring physicians.
The Medical Centre in Stratford serves as a central laboratory in Stratford's neighborhood, conveniently situated near a major medical campus. The facility is accessible via local public transit and meets all accessibility standards, typically integrated within a larger hospital or medical center complex. This environment provides a modern, state-of-the-art diagnostic setting essential for accurate laboratory testing. For specimen drop-off or specific inquiries, referring physicians are advised to contact the laboratory's main office or their designated contact point for assistance.
- What kinds of samples does a Pathologist like Dr. Sawka examine?
- Dr. Sawka, in their role as a 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., analyzes many types of patient specimens. This can range from tiny needle biopsies taken to investigate a suspicious lump, to cells scraped or brushed from surfaces (cytology), to complex surgical specimens removed to treat cancer. They also interpret blood and bone marrow samples for hematological conditions. The specific types of samples depend on the clinical question being asked and the suspected disease.
- How is accuracy ensured in pathology diagnoses made by Dr. Sawka?
- Pathology laboratories, where Dr. Sawka 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. Sawka.
- What is the role of a Pathologist like Dr. Sawka in healthcare?
- A Pathologist, such as Dr. Sawka, 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. Sawka, as a 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.
- Will I meet Dr. Sawka directly as a patient?
- Typically, patients do not have direct appointments with Pathologists like Dr. Sawka. Their expertise is utilized through the analysis of specimens sent to the lab by your treating doctor (e.g., surgeon, family physician, oncologist). Dr. Sawka then provides a diagnostic report back to your doctor, who will share the results and discuss the implications with you. The pathologist's work is essential for your diagnosis and treatment plan, even if you don't meet them in person.
- How long does it usually take to get pathology results from Dr. Sawka's lab?
- Receiving pathology results typically takes anywhere from a few days for routine cases to one or more weeks for complex specimens requiring special stains or molecular analysis. Dr. Sawka and the laboratory team strive for accuracy and completeness, which sometimes requires additional processing time. Your referring doctor will be notified once Dr. Sawka's report is finalized and will then discuss the findings with you.
- How are the findings from a Pathologist like Dr. Sawka used by other doctors?
- Pathology reports from specialists like Dr. Sawka are critical tools for treating physicians. They contain detailed descriptions of microscopic findings and a definitive diagnosis. This information allows other doctors to understand the exact nature of a patient's illness, plan surgeries, choose medications, monitor disease progression, and assess the effectiveness of treatments. The accuracy of Dr. Sawka's diagnostic work is therefore paramount for optimal patient outcomes.
The Medical Centre
46 General Hospital Drive
Stratford, ON N5A 2Y6
Laboratory Phone: (519) 272-8210
The laboratory facility meets accessibility standards and is typically part of a larger hospital or medical center complex.
Dr. Sawka is a licensed Anatomical Pathologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. Pathology services by Dr. Sawka 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. Sawka's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Sawka-Barry-Wayne/0041267-55243