Dr. Michelle Rose Downes – Pathologist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Michelle Downes is a highly skilled Anatomical Pathologist, specializing in the laboratory diagnosis of disease. Working within the laboratory at Urgent Care Centre in Toronto, ON, she collaborates closely with clinicians across various specialties. The laboratory is equipped with advanced diagnostic technology to ensure accurate and timely results, supporting clinical decision-making across a broad spectrum of medical disciplines. Her role involves meticulous examination of tissue biopsies and surgical specimens, providing critical insights that guide patient management.

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. Dr. Downes is recognized and licensed by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), holding license number 98940. She completed her medical education with a Medical Degree from the National University of Ireland (Ireland) and has over 11 years of experience in the field since 2013. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

Her professional philosophy emphasizes diagnostic accuracy and precision, utilizing state-of-the-art laboratory techniques and technologies. She is committed to effective collaboration and communication with clinical colleagues to ensure optimal patient care. Dr. Downes upholds the highest standards of laboratory quality assurance and patient safety, contributing to medical knowledge through ongoing research and education where applicable. Her dedication to diagnostic excellence supports patient care in Toronto, providing expert reporting and consultation in English and ensuring that each diagnosis is both accurate and clinically meaningful.

Dr. Downes 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 Urgent Care Centre in Toronto's Lawrence Park neighbourhood serves as the primary location where Dr. Downes conducts her diagnostic work. The centre is conveniently accessible via public transit, including TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus), and is situated near Nathan Phillips Square. The facility meets accessibility standards and is typically part of a larger hospital or medical center complex, equipped with a state-of-the-art diagnostic environment. For specimen drop-off or specific inquiries, referring physicians are advised to contact the laboratory directly or coordinate through the main hospital or medical center contacts.

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

Pathologists like Dr. Downes 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. Downes is skilled in interpreting these diverse samples.

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

Dr. Downes is 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. She is 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. Downes'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. Downes, is the best person to provide an estimated timeframe for your specific results.

Will I meet Dr. Downes directly as a patient?

While Pathologists like Dr. Downes 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. Downes's findings with you.

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

Pathology laboratories, where Dr. Downes 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. Downes.

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

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

Urgent Care Centre
2075 Bayview Avenue
Toronto, ON M4N 3M5

Laboratory Phone: (416) 480-6100 | Laboratory Fax: (416) 480-4271

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

Dr. Downes 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. Downes 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. Downes's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Downes-Michelle-Rose/0278450-98940