Society – Education

If popular medicine gave the people wisdom as well as knowledge, it would be the best protection for scientific and well-trained physicians
Rudolf Virchow

FMH Specialization in Molecular Pathology

The official FMH advanced training in Molecular Pathology provides physicians with specialized competencies in performing and interpreting molecular analyses applied to pathological diagnostics.

Admission Criteria

Candidates must hold a recognized medical degree (Swiss federal diploma or equivalent) and have completed their specialization in pathology. Admission to this advanced training requires prior achievement of specialist status in pathology.

Training Program and Duration

The advanced training in molecular pathology lasts at least one year and cannot overlap with the core specialty training period. Candidates must complete the program at accredited institutions approved by the Swiss Institute for Postgraduate and Continuing Medical Education (ISFM).

Required Competencies

Candidates are expected to master various molecular pathology techniques, including:

Tissue preparation for molecular analysis.
DNA/RNA extraction, purification, and quantification.
PCR techniques, sequencing, mutation analysis, and in situ hybridization methods.
Detection of gene rearrangements, translocations, clonality assessments, and loss of heterozygosity (LOH).
Interpretation and clinical integration of molecular test results, report writing, and quality assurance.

Candidates must independently perform and interpret molecular analyses on samples from at least 250 patients.

Examinations

Certification involves two components:

Written Exam: 50 multiple-choice questions (duration: 3 hours).
Practical Oral Exam: Case discussions (approx. 50-60 minutes).

The examinations assess theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and the ability to integrate molecular findings clinically. Exams are offered annually, and candidates may choose their preferred language (French, German, or Italian).

For detailed official information, please consult the ISFM guidelines for Molecular Pathology specialization (PDF).

Continuous Training

Continuous professional development is essential to ensure that molecular pathologists maintain the highest standards of practice, remain updated with cutting-edge developments, and deliver optimal patient care.

The Swiss Society of Molecular Pathology (SSMP) follows the official Continuing Education Program set by the Swiss Institute for Postgraduate and Continuing Medical Education (ISFM).

Requirements for FMH Certification Maintenance

Pathologists must obtain a minimum of 80 credits per year, structured as follows:

Structured Continuing Education (50 credits):

Minimum 25 credits in essential pathology-specific training.
Up to 25 credits from broader educational activities recognized by other medical specialty societies or institutions affiliated with the ISFM.

Self-directed Learning (30 credits):

Includes individual study activities relevant to pathology and molecular diagnostics without formal accreditation requirements.

Types of Educational Activities

Essential Pathology Training:
Specialized seminars, workshops, or courses directly relevant to pathology practice and essential updates in molecular diagnostics.
Broader Training Activities:
Includes interdisciplinary seminars, conferences, or courses recognized by the ISFM, contributing to expanded clinical knowledge beneficial to pathology practice.
Self-directed Study:
Independent learning, literature reviews, research activities, and other personal initiatives for ongoing professional enrichment.

Certification Maintenance

Members must document participation in accredited continuing education activities and provide evidence to the Swiss Institute for Postgraduate and Continuing Medical Education (ISFM) to maintain FMH specialist certification.

For detailed official guidelines, please consult the SSPath Continuing Education Program.