FSP Spotlight | Get to Know Patricia Moody McNab, MD

Welcome to this edition of the FSP member spotlight. Every month we will highlight a different FSP member who is doing exciting things in the field of pathology. This month we are particularly excited to spotlight Patricia Moody McNab, MD, an FSP board member specializing in Dermatopathology. Dr. Moody McNab completed her Dermatopathology fellowship training at UTMB, Galveston Texas and a surgical pathology fellowship at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa. She has been serving many dermatology practices both locally and  internationally and has developed a solid reputation for excellent quality and service. She has given several lectures and is actively involved with meetings and updating dermatologists with the newest and latest changes in Dermatopathology. 

Patricia Moody McNab, MD
Dermatopathologist, FSP Board Member
Plant City, FL 

What is your current role?
I am a Dermatopathologist at CarePath Diagnostics. While the majority of my time is spent reading skin, I also cover non-cutaneous pathology in our office when the need arises, such a breast, GU, and oral pathology. I cover all frozen section needs (approximately 4-5 times per month). I cover all medical director duties when the managing director is out of the office as well. From time to time I help other laboratories in fulfill their directorship needs as well.

What is the best part of your occupation?
Being a part of such an amazing work family. I also have the opportunity to step away from microscope and "go out into the field" to visit clients. Interpersonal relationships are paramount.

How did you become interested in pathology?
It was the only specialty that piqued and kept my attention in medical school. I took a rotation in my 4th year. I loved the camaraderie around the multi-headed microscope....the gathering of minds to solve unique problems/diagnoses.

How did you become involved with the FSP?
I joined FSP my first year of residency. It was so exciting because we got to participate in amazing lectures from world class pathologists. USF pathology was always very supportive and encouraging when it came to FSP. I even submitted a poster to FSP when I was completing my dermpath fellowship at UTMB in Texas.

Explain how you benefit from being a member of FSP?
It helps me keep up on the latest knowledge in all areas of pathology. Given that the majority of my cases are skin related, it's important to have a place to go to enrich yourself on all subjects non-skin!

What would you like to see occur in the field of pathology (i.e., scientific advances, greater awareness of the field, etc.) during your career?  
As AI becomes more integrated into the pathology arena, I'd like to see a way in which pathologists can be utilized to the fullest in this transition.

What are your hobbies outside of the office?
Camping, travel softball/baseball mom, reading, growing avocado trees.

What is something surprising that most people do not know about you?
I come from a long line of civil servants. I'm the only doctor in a family of lawyers and judges. My grandfather served in the state legislature and my sister is currently a member of the Florida state cabinet. I try to find ways in and out of the medical community to serve as well. My dream is to operate a small farm one day which will provide fresh food for food banks and schools. I would like to educate children on how to grow their own food as well. 

Is there anything I did not ask that you would like me to mention in the article?
Please stay safe during this time. Be a source of light and strength to those around you, especially your family. Now more than ever people are turning to pathologists for comfort. For those of us that have kids, focus more on making them feel safe rather than completing school assignments. Our kids are bright, and when we do return to school, teachers will meet them at their level and help them excel.