On the 11th November 2020, we celebrated the health workers that have been behind the scenes of the COVID-19 pandemic since day one - Pathology workers. International Pathology Day is an annual awareness day dedicated to acknowledging and appreciating the vital role of pathology workers in our healthcare system. It is apparent now more than ever that pathology is the backbone of medicine.

The COVID-19 pandemic has tested Pathology staff to their limits, and yet they have continued to be a pillar of strength within our community. From COVID testing, to developing methods to manage infection, the pathology community is actively modelling disease control strategies to contain the pandemic and investigate how to prevent such a spread in the future.

This work is high stress and often thankless. Laboratory work operates as the machinery of our healthcare system and is the driving force behind recovering from COVID. To Pathology workers - You are amazing. You have sacrificed so much over the past couple of months and the HSU was glad to celebrate you and your contributions. Under immense pressure and with many workplace challenges, you have safeguarded our state. You deserve the admiration of everybody in NSW.

The HSU put on a range of celebrations in hospitals throughout the week for pathology staff to acknowledge their ongoing work. Their work deserves recognition on more than just one day, but these celebrations were the least we could do for our COVID heroes. The HSU commits to consistently highlight and appreciate the work of pathology staff.

They’re fighting COVID for us, so we’re fighting for better wages and conditions for them.