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The Department of Health launched a Pathology Modernisation Programme in 1999, with the key goals of improving the quality and efficiency of NHS pathology services and encouraging the introduction of new technologies and practices to deliver high quality care for patients.

A consultation paper 'Pathology: The essential service - Draft guidance on Modernising Pathology Services' proposed future principles, goals and objectives for NHS pathology. This document builds on the responses received to that consultation. It sets out steps that can be taken locally to develop pathology modernisation strategies and describes action which will be taken nationally to support development.