Anesthesiologist Career & Jobs: Training, Salary & Certification Requirements

Undergoing a medical procedure that requires invasive techniques is always intimidating for any individual, no matter how old or experienced with doctors and hospitals they are. Any time you have surgery performed, whether exploratory or emergency, you are always putting your body at risk. An anesthesiologist is a doctor of medicine that specializes in assessing the current or potential pain that a surgical patient might be subjected to, and administering pain medicine that will allow the procedure to proceed without the patient feeling any uncomfortable sensations. Anesthesiologists must be able to examine patients so that they can determine the type and amount of anesthetic that is required. Anesthesiologists must be able to work with doctors and surgeons so that they can do what is best for the patient at all times.

Salary Outlook

Average Annual Salary
$245,200
Salary Range
$195,400 - $290,000

Work Environment

Most people that work as anesthesiologists are employed at outpatient surgical centers or hospitals. Other opportunities for employment may exist at urgent care centers, pain management clinics, private practices, university medical centers and in the armed forces.

High School Preparation

Students that are interested in pursuing a career as a professional anesthesiologist should spend their time in high school focusing on courses in algebra, biology, chemistry, geometry, physics, trigonometry, anatomy and physiology. It is also helpful to take any available courses in the humanities, health occupations/medical professions education, psychology/counseling, and increasing computer skills.

Requirements

Students interesting in becoming an anesthesiologist must receive their high school diploma as well as continuing on to an accredited college or university where they must complete a premedical program. These programs are always at least four years in length, and many students find that they must commit to a very demanding academic schedule in order to finish in the allotted time. Following graduation with an undergraduate degree, students must then pass the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) and be accepted into a school of medicine where they will continue their education and finally become a doctor of medicine (MD). Getting accepted into medical school involved several other processes, including personal interviews and a review of academic performance.

Career Outlook

It is known that the population of humans on the Earth is growing rapidly, and as a result, the demand for qualified doctors is growing rapidly as well. The demand for professional anesthesiologists is expected to grow alongside the other medical professions, and opportunities will likely increase by 10 to 20 percent in the next ten years. As medical technology continues to become more sophisticated, trained anesthesiologists will be able to assist with pain management in more comprehensive ways as well.

Professional Organizations

American Society of Anesthesiologists
520 N. Northwest Hwy.
Park Ridge, IL 60068-2573
Phone: (847) 825-5586
www.asahq.org