BMC Pathologist Dr. Richard C. Friedberg Named President-Elect of College of American Pathologists

SPRINGFIELD – Dr. Richard C. Friedberg, chair of the Department of Pathology at Baystate Medical Center, was sworn in as President-elect of the College of American Pathologists (CAP) during it annual meeting in Orlando on Oct. 12. “The pathologist plays a fundamental role in delivering a patient diagnosis and determining treatment. To lead CAP as we advance the specialty for the benefit of patients is an incredible opportunity for me personally and professionally,” said Friedberg.

Along with his role as a member of the CAP Board of Governors (BOG) over the past six years, Friedberg — who has been a member since 1993 — has chaired CAP’s Council on Government and Professional Affairs (CGPA), as well as the Policy Roundtable, Risk Management, and Strategy Management Committees. He has also served as a member of the BOG Executive Committee, CGPA Executive Committee, Political Action Committee, Finance Committee, Investment Committee, and Transformation Program Office Steering Committee.

An advocate for patients, Friedberg received the CAP’s Lansky Award, which recognizes a practicing pathologist exemplifying distinguished service and high standards of excellence in the laboratory in the best interests of patients.

“Dr. Friedberg brings a depth and breadth to the advocacy issues facing pathologists today that will help us demonstrate the pathologist’s integral role on the patient care team as the nation moves toward value-based medicine,” said CAP President Dr. Gene N. Herbek, FCAP.  “With his extensive involvement in CAP, Dr. Friedberg brings an understanding of our mission that is critical to the success of the organization as it serves patients, pathologists, and the public.”

Friedberg earned his bachelor’s degree from Stanford University in Stanford, CA, and his doctoral degrees (MD and PhD) from Duke University in Durham, NC. He received his master’s degree in Health Care Management from Harvard University. He completed his internship, residency, and fellowship at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, VA, and is board certified in clinical pathology, blood banking and transfusion medicine.

“In a time of rapid change in health care, along with advancements in medicine and technology, we need to ensure that patients, employers, payers, government, and academics recognize pathology as a ‘must have’ for the quality of care we all deserve and need,” said Friedberg, who noted his role in CAP offers Baystate an opportunity to connect with providers and facilities around the country to share best practices in the delivery of care.

“The pathologist’s future lies in diagnostic medicine where physician scientists use all available technologies to deliver the correct diagnosis and supporting information to patients, caregivers, and institutions. We need to better communicate our role as health care providers and embrace this future.”

Friedberg will immediately begin serving as president-elect and becomes CAP president in the fall of 2015.