Objective:

To assess the perceived requirements and obstacles for the adoption of telepathology in Colombia, particularly in the context of cancer diagnosis and existing disparities.

Key Findings:

• 100% of respondents indicated a need for subspecialist assistance for complex oncological cases.
• 86% experienced significant emotional distress related to diagnostic ambiguity and workload.
• Consultation response times varied significantly, from 1-7 days in Bogotá to over 30 days in smaller towns.
• 86% were aware of telepathology, but 63.2% had never implemented it in practice.
• 94% believed that slide scanners could improve diagnosis timeliness.
• Qualitative insights revealed themes of administrative obstacles and the potential benefits of telepathology for expert input and education.

Interpretation:

The study highlights the need for addressing both technical and systemic barriers to telepathology implementation, focusing on the professional needs of general pathologists, including prompt feedback and educational opportunities.

Limitations:

• The sample size of pathologists surveyed was relatively small (n = 57), which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
• The study may not fully represent the diverse experiences of all pathologists across Colombia.

Conclusion:

Telepathology has the potential to enhance cancer diagnosis in Colombia by improving access to specialist input and educational opportunities, but systemic challenges must be addressed for successful implementation.