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What is it like being an anesthesiologist? How difficult is the schooling? What describes someone who is fit for the job?

Ive been a patient at Scottish Rite children’s hospital since i was 6 getting correctional surgeries. Thought it looked kinda interesting.

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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Allie,

Pathway to Becoming an Anesthesiologist Assistant

To embark on the journey of becoming an anesthesiologist assistant, a robust foundation in science and mathematics is crucial. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this path:

1. Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree in a science-related discipline such as biology, chemistry, or physics is a prerequisite. Courses in anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology are highly beneficial.
2. Pursue a Master’s Degree: After securing your bachelor’s degree, the next step is to earn a master’s degree in anesthesia from an accredited institution. There are a limited number of such programs in the United States at present.
3. Achieve Certification: Upon completion of your master’s degree, you must pass the certification exam conducted by the National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants (NCCAA). It's essential to keep your certification current by earning continuing education credits and renewing your certification every six years.

Essential Skills for Success

To excel as an anesthesiologist assistant, you should possess the following skills:

1. Attention to Detail: As you'll be administering anesthesia and monitoring vital signs during surgery, being detail-oriented is crucial.
2. Superior Communication Skills: Excellent communication is key as you'll be interacting closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals.
3. Critical Thinking: Quick decision-making abilities, especially in emergencies, are vital, necessitating strong critical thinking skills.
4. Physical Stamina: Given that you may need to stand for extended periods during surgeries, physical stamina is a must.

Career Prospects and Remuneration

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts an 18% growth in the employment of anesthesiologist assistants from 2020 to 2030, a rate significantly higher than the average for all occupations. As of May 2021, the median annual wage for anesthesiologist assistants stood at $115,050.

Reliable Reference Sources
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Anesthesiologist Assistants.
- National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants (NCCAA), Certification Process.
- American Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants (AAAA), Career Path.

May God bless you!
James Constantine.
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Irene’s Answer

hey! this is a good primer if you live in the USA https://www.asahq.org/education-and-career/career-resources/anesthesia-as-a-career

all the best
Irene
anesthesiologist physician in Geneva, Switzerland
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