Backed by its 75-year legacy of advancing evidence-based laboratory medicine that improves pathology, patient care, and public health, the College of American Pathologists (CAP) denounces the spread of misleading and inaccurate COVID-19 information.
As the leading organization of board-certified pathologists, the CAP asserts that misinformation about COVID-19 vaccination and alternative self-prescribed treatments is a danger to public health. While the CAP fosters and honors robust exchanges of varying professional opinions in the practice of medicine, we stand against the spread of COVID-19 information that is not firmly grounded in science.
Beginning with the initial distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, the CAP has steadfastly encouraged vaccinations for all who are eligible. We are committed to maintaining public trust in vaccination, just as we are committed to accurate COVID-19 testing.
Members of the CAP who disseminate misinformation violate the CAP’s Principles of Ethical and Professional Conduct, which state that a pathologist “shall place the interests of the patient foremost,” and “shall recognize a professional responsibility to contribute to community improvements and the betterment of public health.” Every member of the College of American Pathologists is a physician. A basic tenet of our profession, which is so important that it is taught to each one of us very early in our careers, is primum non nocere: First, do no harm.
About the College of American Pathologists
As the world’s largest organization of board-certified pathologists and leading provider of laboratory accreditation and proficiency testing programs, the College of American Pathologists (CAP) serves patients, pathologists, and the public by fostering and advocating excellence in the practice of pathology and laboratory medicine worldwide. As a 501(c)(6) membership organization, the CAP is the only entity representing pathologists with unrestricted advocacy capability and a political action committee, PathPAC. For more information, visit yourpathologist.org to watch pathologists at work and see the stories of the patients who trust them with their care. Read the CAP Annual Report.