Requirements for use of Digital Images as an Alternative to Direct Microscopy (First Edition 2021)

This is a publication for the National Pathology Accreditation Advisory Council (NPAAC).

Page last updated: 17 December 2021

This Requirement outlines minimum best practice standards for laboratories using digital technology for primary morphological diagnosis and second opinions. This primarily concerns the use of whole slide imaging but also encompasses use of telepathology where digital cameras, operated manually or remotely, transmit images.

The Requirements cover the use of digital microscopy in anatomical pathology, cytopathology, haematology morphology and microscopy in microbiology.

This document comes into effect on 1 February 2022.