What is an Anaesthetist?

 

An anaesthetist is a specialist doctor. After completing a degree in medicine (about 6 years) and basic hospital training (about 3 years) doctors may choose to specialise in one area of medicine, surgery or general practice.

 

Doctors who wish to become specialist anaesthetists must work in an accredited hospital training program for at least a further five years gaining knowledge, skills and experience in the areas of anaesthesia, intensive care, emergency pain and perioperative medicine.

 

Recognition as a specialist anaesthetist is granted by the Commonwealth government when the doctor has completed the specialty training program and passed the examinations of the College of Anaesthetists.

 

Your anaesthetist is responsible for your wellbeing and safety throughout your surgery. This includes planning then giving your anaesthetic, and arranging appropriate postoperative care and pain control.