What is an Anaesthetist?

Anaesthetists are medical doctors with at least five years of specialty training, in addition to medical school residency.

A specialist anaesthetist is a fully qualified medical doctor who, after obtaining their medical degree, has worked for a minimum of two years working in the hospital system before completing a further five years of training in anaesthesia. Clinical anaesthesia is built on the knowledge of physiology (how the body works) and pharmacology (how medications work in the body).

Your Anaesthetist is trained in all aspects of medicine related to patient care before, during and after surgery including pain management, resuscitation, the management of medical emergencies and intensive care. They also study specific areas such as Paediatrics, Obstetrics and the care of the elderly.

Your Anaesthetist will be registered with the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists or equivalent. Every Anaesthetist takes part in the continuing medical education program run by the College or equivalent, to ensure they remain up to date with the rapid changes in Anaesthesia and Medicine.