Hugh Fraser, MD, Comes from Reidsville Hospital.

DANVILLE, VA - (April 17, 2007) - Hugh E. Fraser III, MD has joined the Medical Staff of Danville Regional Medical Center as a pathologist.

He comes to Danville from Annie Penn Memorial Hospital in Reidsville where he was Chief Pathologist. He was at Annie Penn for 14 years.

"I'm impressed with the Medical Center," Fraser said. "From my observation, Danville Regional has turned the corner. Perception often lags behind reality, and I believe that is the case here.

"Medical school students receive training here, and there is an excellent open heart surgery program," he continued. "That speaks volumes."

He has joined Jose M. Estevez, MD and Thomas J. Hardy, MD in the practice of pathology at Danville Regional.

Pathology is the study and diagnosis of disease through examination of cells, tissues and organs. Pathologists help care for patients by providing information needed to ensure appropriate patient care.

"Medical tests are an important part of your healthcare," said Fraser. "An estimated 60 to 70 percent of all decisions regarding patients' diagnosis and treatment, hospital admissions and discharges are based on laboratory test results. Pathologists guide therapy of patients by the information that we provide their doctors.

"Today, there are so many tests available that can be directed toward maladies," Fraser continued. "Specialized tests allow us to identify the cause of malignancies, loss of bone and rheumatoid arthritis."

A native of Greensboro and graduate of the University of Richmond, Fraser earned his medical degree at Wake Forest University. He studied surgery after medical school and was a flight surgeon in the Navy. After his military duty, he completed his residency in pathology at Geisinger Medical Center in Pennsylvania.

Referring to the tools of the pathology profession, Fraser said a "microscope may be less exciting and glamorous than being a flight surgeon," but he enjoys a safer existence and can pilot a microscope.