Active member participation across all our regions is vital in achieving our international aims. Our members support us to facilitate international collaboration, and to deliver projects that improve pathology services and patient care. Members from around the world can help us to advocate for pathology in their own region.
We interviewed Dr Kedar Deodhar, the College’s International Regional Advisor for Southeast Asia, to find out more about his volunteer role and its importance in the region.
As the Southeast Asia Advisor, I see my role as a conduit between the fellows of the region and the College. Each region also has several country advisors. Our job is to collect feedback from members about the FRCPath examinations, as well as training and research opportunities in the region.
Professor Kedar Deodhar International Regional Advisor for Southeast Asia
Can you tell us a bit about your background? What drew you to pathology as a profession?
I was born and brought up in Mumbai. When I completed my post-graduation (equivalent to a Master’s degree), I was a young doctor aspiring to specialise in histopathology. However, at that time, there was no opportunity to train in histopathology in India. I decided to train in Belfast in histopathology and cytology. After a brief stint as a consultant in the NHS, I voluntarily returned to Mumbai to join a referral cancer hospital. I’m still there after 20 years! Looking back, I have immense gratitude for my teachers and loved ones who helped me do that. My school education was in our local language (Marathi) and not in English, although all higher education has been in English. I feel that this makes me more culturally rich.
Working in medicine, I think my rather quiet temperament and personality is better suited to pathology, which is why I chose this field. The field of oncology and oncopathology has seen several changes over the last 3 decades. The entire prognosis and course of treatment depends on us doing our job diligently. Although our specialty is not counted as frontline medicine, it is still a highly important field. It also requires a multidisciplinary team approach, and I feel I fit the team well.
You're currently International Regional Advisor for Southeast Asia at the College. Can you tell us more about how you got involved and what this role entails?
I was asked by a senior colleague of mine (a fellow based in the UK) about the post and whether I would be interested. I have been a member of the College since 2001 and a fellow since 2008. I have always cherished my association with the College. This role was a fantastic opportunity to become formally associated with the College in some way.
As the Southeast Asia Advisor, I see my role as a conduit between the fellows of the region and the College. Each region also has several country advisors. Our job is to collect feedback from members about the FRCPath examinations, as well as training and research opportunities in the region. In turn, I share any feedback, problems or concerns from my region during the College’s International Committee meetings, where we use our combined expertise to problem-solve and find solutions for our members. This role also helps to connect members with the College, as well as provide them with specific education and research requirements in their area.
Volunteering in this role with the College adds something different to my career. I enjoy the mental challenge of problem-solving issues. I really value the opportunity to interact with people from across the different subspecialties. It also gives me the chance to facilitate teaching programmes for undergraduate medical students, which highlights the role of laboratory medicine and the benefits of pursuing it as a career.
The College is a well-trusted institute; the name implies quality to the highest standard. The more members and fellows who are involved in its activities, the better the College will function.
Professor Kedar Deodhar International Regional Advisor for Southeast Asia
Why do you think it's important for members to get involved in College activities?
The College is a well-trusted institute; the name implies quality to the highest standard. The more members and fellows who are involved in its activities, the better the College will function. Volunteering can also give members a greater sense of belonging to the College.
We must be good team members and always uphold the College's reputation. Every member of the College has a unique set of talents and attributes. I do believe 2 plus 2 often equals more than 4 when we work together.
What advice do you have for other members who are interested in volunteering with the College?
Get involved in any way you can. You are the College's best brand ambassadors.
If you’d like to get involved in the College’s international activities, or find out more about what’s going on in your region, please get in touch with our International team at [email protected].
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