Dr. Hyang Ko 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 Toronto, ON, she collaborates closely with clinicians across various specialties. Her role involves meticulous examination and interpretation of tissue biopsies and surgical specimens, adhering strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). She specializes in Anatomical Pathology, focusing on the macroscopic and microscopic examination of tissue biopsies and surgical specimens to diagnose a wide range of diseases, including cancer and inflammatory conditions. Her expertise is critical for accurate tumor grading, staging, and identifying prognostic markers. The laboratory where Dr. Ko works is equipped with advanced diagnostic technology to ensure accurate and timely results, supporting clinical decision-making across various medical specialties.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from Chonnam National University in South Korea and has accumulated over 13 years of experience practicing as an Anatomical Pathologist since 2011. Dr. Ko is recognized as a CPSO Recognized Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting her extensive training and expertise in the field of diagnostic pathology.
Dr. Ko is committed to diagnostic accuracy and precision, utilizing state-of-the-art laboratory techniques and technologies. 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, she also contributes to medical knowledge through research and education where applicable. Dedicated to supporting patient care in Toronto, she communicates findings in Korean when liaising with multilingual clinical teams, in addition to providing primary reports in English.
Dr. Ko 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.
Located within a diagnostic laboratory or hospital pathology department in Toronto's Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood, Dr. Ko's workplace is situated in a state-of-the-art diagnostic environment. The facility is in close proximity to the Toronto Eaton Centre and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). The laboratory meets accessibility standards and is typically part of a larger hospital or medical center complex. For specimen drop-off or specific inquiries, referring physician offices or the laboratory's main contact should be used to facilitate communication and access.
- What kinds of samples does a Pathologist like Dr. Ko examine?
- Dr. Ko, in her role 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, 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. She also interprets 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 are the findings from a Pathologist like Dr. Ko used by other doctors?
- The diagnostic report provided by a Pathologist like Dr. Ko 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. Ko's findings form the basis for many critical treatment decisions.
- Will I meet Dr. Ko directly as a patient?
- Typically, patients do not have direct appointments with Pathologists like Dr. Ko. Their expertise is utilized through the analysis of specimens sent to the lab by your treating doctor (e.g., surgeon, family physician, oncologist). Dr. Ko 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. Ko?
- Accuracy is paramount in pathology. Dr. Ko and her 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. Ko undergo extensive training and continuous medical education to maintain their diagnostic expertise and stay updated on the latest medical knowledge and diagnostic criteria.
- How long does it usually take to get pathology results from Dr. Ko'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. Ko, is the best person to provide an estimated timeframe for your specific results.
200 Elizabeth Street
Toronto, ON M5G 2C4
Laboratory Phone: (416) 340-5197 | Laboratory Fax: (416) 340-5517
The laboratory facility meets accessibility standards and is typically part of a larger hospital or medical center complex.
Dr. Ko 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. Ko 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. Ko's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Ko-Hyang-Mi/0253668-91434