Dr. Benita Sum Mei Lee – Pathologist | New Westminster, BC

Dr. Benita Lee is a highly skilled General Pathologist, specializing in the laboratory diagnosis of disease. Working within a major hospital or diagnostic laboratory in New Westminster, BC, she collaborates closely with clinicians across various medical specialties. She plays a crucial role in patient care by examining tissues, cells, and body fluids to identify abnormalities, determine the nature and extent of diseases such as cancer, infections, and inflammatory conditions. The diagnostic insights provided by Dr. Lee are essential for guiding clinical management and treatment strategies by other physicians. The laboratory where Dr. Lee works is equipped with advanced diagnostic technology to ensure accurate and timely results, supporting clinical decision-making across various medical specialties.

She graduated with an MD from the University of Manitoba in 1996 and holds specialty certification as a General Pathologist. Dr. Lee has earned certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating her expertise and commitment to excellence in diagnostic pathology and laboratory medicine.

Dedicated to diagnostic accuracy and precision, Dr. Lee utilizes advanced laboratory techniques and technologies to provide reliable results. She emphasizes effective collaboration and communication with clinical colleagues to ensure optimal patient management. Upholding the highest standards of laboratory quality assurance and patient safety, Dr. Lee also contributes to medical knowledge through research and education where applicable. Her professional philosophy centers on supporting patient care in New Westminster through diagnostic excellence, offering expert reporting and consultation in English.

Dr. Lee 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 or hospital pathology department where Dr. Lee works is situated in the Uptown neighborhood of New Westminster, BC, specifically within the Massey Victory Heights area. The facility is conveniently located near River Market, making it accessible via TransLink services including the SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus routes. The laboratory environment is modern and equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, ensuring a high-quality diagnostic environment. The facility meets accessibility standards and is typically part of a larger hospital or medical center complex. Access for specimen drop-off or specific inquiries should be directed through the referring physician’s office or the laboratory’s main contact number. This location serves as a core diagnostic service within the healthcare facility, supporting clinical decision-making across multiple specialties.

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

Pathology reports from specialists like Dr. Lee 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. Lee's diagnostic work is therefore paramount for optimal patient outcomes.

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

Dr. Lee is a General 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., a physician expert in laboratory medicine and the study of disease. Pathologists are often called 'the doctor's doctor' because they provide essential diagnostic information to clinicians by analyzing patient specimens. This includes interpreting biopsies, surgical resections, cytological samples, and blood tests, ultimately helping to determine the correct diagnosis, prognosis, and appropriate course of treatment for a wide range of medical conditions.

How long does it usually take to get pathology results from Dr. Lee'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. Lee, is the best person to provide an estimated timeframe for your specific results.

Will I meet Dr. Lee directly as a patient?

Typically, patients do not have direct appointments with Pathologists like Dr. Lee. Their expertise is utilized through the analysis of specimens sent to the lab by your treating doctor (e.g., surgeon, family physician, oncologist). Dr. Lee 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 is accuracy ensured in pathology diagnoses made by Dr. Lee?

Accuracy is paramount in pathology. Dr. Lee and their laboratory adhere to stringent quality control and quality assurance protocols. This includes standardized specimen handling and processing, use of calibrated equipment, participation in proficiency testing programs, internal case reviews, and consultations with colleagues on complex cases. Pathologists like Dr. Lee undergo extensive training and continuous medical education to maintain their diagnostic expertise and stay updated on the latest medical knowledge and diagnostic criteria.

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

Dr. Lee, in their role as a General 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.

330 Columbia St E, Royal Columbian Hospital Histopathology Laboratory
New Westminster, BC V3L 3W7

Laboratory Phone: (604) 520-4352 | Laboratory Fax: (604) 520-4409

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

Dr. Lee is a licensed General Pathologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Pathology services by Dr. Lee 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. Lee's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/312830/Lee%2CBenita