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For Sri Bharathi Kavuri, MBBS, being involved in patient care means showing up to work every day knowing that what she does truly matters. It is knowing that each slide, each antibody profile represents a person, complete with their own story. 

“It’s easy to feel removed from the bedside when you’re behind the microscope or in the lab, but every result we release has a direct impact on someone’s care,” Dr. Kavuri says. Knowing that keeps her grounded and reminds her that pathologists and medical laboratory scientists play a vital role in a patient’s story. 

Here, Dr. Kavuri shares her thoughts on what drew her to pathology, how she became involved with ASCP and more. 

What initially drew you to the field of pathology/laboratory medicine and inspired you to pursue it as a career?

My interest in pathology actually began outside of school. When I was 16, I read the book Final Diagnosis by Arthur Hailey, a novel that beautifully narrates the intricate inner workings of a hospital. Amid all the memorable characters, the one who captivated me most was the eccentric yet indispensable pathologist. In moments of crisis, this was the person everyone turned to for answers. This made a lasting impression on me, and I decided right then that I wanted to be that person one day, the force behind the scenes who makes the diagnosis that drives everything forward.

If you could help patients understand one thing about the role of pathology or lab medicine in their care, what would it be?

This is something I feel really passionate about. I wish patients could see how much heart and effort go into every result we release. Behind every crossmatched unit of blood or biopsy report are hours of careful thought, double-checks, and sometimes sleepless nights. We agonize over details, celebrate clear margins and remission, and carry the weight of every diagnosis we sign out. I would shout it from rooftops if I could- we may not see you, but we know you and we care!

How did you first get involved with ASCP?

When I decided to go into pathology, almost everyone around me was surprised. The perception that pathology wasn’t as glamorous as other medical specialties was strong, but my mind was made up. I knew I wanted to be an advocate for our field once I had a meaningful voice. So when I came across the opportunity to serve as a Pathology Ambassador for ASCP, I jumped at it. In many ways, it felt like a natural extension of what I’d already been doing since medical school, working with students to show them just how fascinating and vital pathology really is. I have to thank Twitter (now X) and then-resident council chair Dr. Yembur Ahmad for helping me discover that first opportunity with ASCP, which eventually led to joining the Resident Council.