Why AI Won’t Replace Pathologists—But It Can Help Them Thrive w/ Dr. Sarah Dry

In this special episode recorded at USCAP and sponsored by MUSE Microscopy (https://musemicroscopy.com/), I sit down with Dr. Sarah Dry, Professor and Chair of Pathology at UCLA, to explore what it really takes to adopt direct-to-digital pathology in clinical practice.

Drawing from her experience since 2007, Dr. Dry shares how frozen sections offer a realistic starting point, why storage protocols need to evolve, and how change management can make or break innovation. We also discuss the future of the pathology workforce, the role of histotechnologists, and how AI can support—not replace—pathologists.

I loved this conversation—realistic, optimistic, and grounded in deep experience. I hope you like it too.

✨ Key Highlights

Dr. Dry’s early adoption of digital pathology in 2007
Direct-to-digital imaging as a solution to common workflow pain points
The importance of adapting change strategies to subspecialty workflows
Histotechnologist workforce shortages and how tech may bridge the gap
Why AI won’t replace pathologists—but will free them for higher-level tasks
Exploring frozen sections as a practical first application of new tech
Addressing fears about change and embracing incremental progress