How to Become Anesthesiologist: Career Path & Salaries

Anesthesiology deals with administering anesthesia during surgeries and focuses on critical patient care. Anesthesiologists are required during every operation and work in settings like hospitals and clinics. They were among the highest-paid physicians in the US in 2023, as per Becker's ASC Review, earning $462,506 annually. If you wish to explore this coveted profession, read on to learn how to become an anesthesiologist. 

Who is Anesthetist

A physician who oversees anesthesia care, pain management, and critical care before, during, and after surgeries or invasive procedures is known as an anesthesiologist. They ensure that the patient’s body parts are well cushioned and protected from injury while unconscious during surgery. 

Role of Anesthesiologist 

The responsibilities of anesthesiologists can vary depending on the stage of the medical procedure. Some of the key duties of an anesthesiologist are: 

• An anesthesiologist studies the patient’s condition and test results to evaluate the procedure's suitability for the patient. 
• Before the surgery, anesthesiologists resolve patients' queries regarding the procedure and tests. 
• They are responsible for creating the safest anesthetic treatment plan for the patient. 
• During surgery, an anesthesiologist monitors the patient's vital signs, takes care of medical issues, and provides fluids, blood products, and medications to support the body's functions, including the heart, lungs, and kidneys. They could operate independently or as part of a care team for anesthesia that includes other physician anesthesiologists or nurse anesthetists.
• The anesthesiologist monitors the recovery of the patient after surgery. They ensure that the patient is not under anesthesia and can be discharged safely. 
• Anesthesiologists also design a recovery and pain management plan for patients after discharge. 

Average Salary of Anesthetist

The average salary of anesthesiologists varies depending on qualifications, experience, and the country where they practice. The following table shows the average annual salary of an anesthetist in the US.

Source: Payscale (as of January 2024)

Skills Needed to Become Anesthetist

Becoming an anesthetist requires having specific medical knowledge and abilities. The following are some of the fundamental skills required to work as an anesthetist:

Sound decision-making & problem-solving skills: 

Since each patient is different, you must use your decision-making and analytical capabilities to determine the correct dosage of anesthesia and how you will administer it. 

Excellent attention to detail: 

You must possess a detail-oriented mindset to excel as an anesthesiologist. This will help you pay close attention to the patient’s health during surgeries and identify promptly if they are reacting to anesthesia.  

Impeccable medical knowledge: 

You must have a thorough knowledge of all the essential medical terms, as this provides a better understanding of the patient’s needs and ensures that you deliver the proper care.

Staying calm under pressure: 

Anesthesiologists may need to make quick decisions during surgeries. Thus, it is crucial to develop the temperament required to manage pressure. 

Interpersonal skills: 

Anesthesiologists must collaborate with other physicians and nurses in the operating room. Thus, you must possess the requisite communication and interpersonal skills to ensure the delivery of proper patient care. 

How to Become Anesthesiologist

The process to become an anesthesiologist will differ according to the country. The following are general requirements that must be met to become an anesthetist:

Earn Bachelor’s & Master’s Degree

United States (US) 

In the US, you need to complete pre-med education by pursuing an undergraduate degree, preferably in science or math-related fields. You can consider taking science or biology courses as electives, even if your major is in a nonscientific field. Following this, you need to earn an MD (Doctor of Medicine). For this, you must clear the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and apply to medical colleges for MD programs. This four-part exam assesses problem-solving, critical thinking, and scientific knowledge. 

United Kingdom (UK) 

In other countries, such as the UK, you must first complete a five-year undergraduate medical degree recognized by the General Medical Council (GMC). After this, you must participate in a two-year foundation program involving general training. Following this, you can pursue a seven-year postgraduate training in anesthesiology. Alternatively, you can opt for an eight-year training that is inclusive of a 2-year acute care common system (ACCS) program. It is important to note that when pursuing medical education in the UK, colleges will ask you to take exams like the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) or the BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT). 

Australia 

In Australia, you must complete a 3-year undergraduate program. This is followed by a four-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) course.

Fulfill Residency Requirements

• Upon earning an MD degree in the US, you will need to complete a four-year anesthesiology residency program. In Australia, the residency program is for two years. Whereas in the UK, students usually opt for specialized intermediate training in anesthesiology after their postgraduate medical education. This typically lasts for two years. 
• Gain practical experience in hospitals or clinics within the chosen specialty.
• Residency may involve an 80-hour workweek and 24-hour shifts in the US.

Consider Fellowships

• Some anesthesiologists pursue fellowships for specialized training in areas such as pain management, pediatric anesthesia, or obstetric anesthesia.
• Fellowships typically last one to two years in the US. 
• In Australia, you must complete the fellowship of ANZCA’s (Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists) introductory and advanced programs to practice as an anesthesiologist. 

Get Licensed and Certified

Obtain a medical license from the state. This typically involves a review of education and training. The exact procedure will vary according to the country in which you wish to practice.

Those who are wondering how to become a certified anesthesiologist assistant will have a slightly different career path.

Conclusion

Pursuing a career as an anesthesiologist requires intense dedication and clarity. Though it can take 12–15 years to become a certified anesthesiologist after school, the career can be extremely rewarding if you are passionate about helping patients. 

Disclaimer: All salaries mentioned above are subject to change

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