Get to Know, Shadi Qasem, MD

Shadi Qasem, MD
Chief of Pathology for Southeastern Pathology Associates at Baptist Health
Jacksonville, Florida

What is your current role?
Chief of Pathology for Southeastern Pathology Associates at Baptist Health-Jacksonville

What is the best part of your occupation? 
Solving problems and working up challenging cases 

How did you become interested in pathology?
I enjoyed looking at slides in the pathology lab when I was in medical school. Then, I did an elective rotation, and one of the pathology residents convinced me to consider pathology as a career. 

How did you become involved with the FSP?
Our pathology group pays for our membership. I attended one FSP meeting and I got hooked up. 

Explain how you benefit from being a member of FSP?
The meetings are outstanding; I get updates from world-renowned faculty without having to travel long distances. I also enjoy meeting other pathologists and interacting with the vendors. The online educational offerings are also great. I appreciate the fact that FSP advocates for pathologists on the state and national levels. 

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?
Full adoption of digital pathology, universal molecular testing for tumors, and increased utilization of AI in healthcare. 

What are your hobbies outside of the office?
Cooking and gardening

What is something surprising that most people do not know about you?
I have a twin brother who looks like me. My wife is also a pathologist. 

Is there anything I did not ask that you would like me to mention in the article?
I am originally from Jordan. My area of expertise is bone and soft tissue pathology, but I enjoy reading at all types of pathology.