Dr. Mei Lin Zimmerman Bissonnette – Pathologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Mei Bissonnette 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, she collaborates closely with clinicians across various specialties. Her practice adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). 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. Bissonnette works is equipped with advanced diagnostic technology to ensure accurate and timely results, supporting clinical decision-making across various medical specialties.

Dr. Bissonnette graduated with an MD from Northwestern University Medical School in 2010. She holds specialty certification as an Anatomical Pathologist and maintains certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her medical training and ongoing professional development ensure she remains at the forefront of diagnostic pathology practice.

With a commitment to diagnostic accuracy and precision, Dr. Bissonnette utilizes advanced 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. Her dedication to diagnostic excellence supports patient care in Vancouver. She provides diagnostic expertise and reporting in English, aiming to facilitate clear and comprehensive clinical communication.

Dr. Bissonnette 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.

Located in Vancouver's Yaletown, Downtown South neighborhood, the diagnostic laboratory or hospital pathology department where Dr. Bissonnette practices is situated in a vibrant area close to the Museum of Vancouver and the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre at Vanier Park. The facility is easily accessible via TransLink services, including SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express at Waterfront Station. The laboratory space meets all accessibility standards and is typically part of a larger hospital or medical center complex, providing a state-of-the-art diagnostic environment. For specimen drop-off or specific inquiries, referring physicians are advised to contact the laboratory's main office or their respective offices for coordinated access. The facility functions as a core diagnostic service within the healthcare infrastructure, supporting timely and accurate diagnostic pathology services.

Will I meet Dr. Bissonnette directly as a patient?

Typically, patients do not have direct appointments with Pathologists like Dr. Bissonnette. Their expertise is utilized through the analysis of specimens sent to the lab by your treating doctor (e.g., surgeon, family physician, oncologist). Dr. Bissonnette 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. Bissonnette'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. Bissonnette, is the best person to provide an estimated timeframe for your specific results.

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

Pathologists like Dr. Bissonnette 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 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., Dr. Bissonnette is skilled in interpreting these diverse samples.

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

Pathology laboratories, where Dr. Bissonnette 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. Bissonnette.

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

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

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

Dr. Bissonnette is 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., 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.

1081 Burrard St, Department of Pathology, St. Paul's Hospital
Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6

Laboratory Phone: (604) 806-8204

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

Dr. Bissonnette 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. Bissonnette 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. Bissonnette's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/353686/Bissonnette%2CMei%20Lin