Anesthesiologist Assistants Salary At The Top Of Non MD Pay

This is not a new field, but it is a growing rapidly. Hospital demand for these professionals far outpace the number of trained anesthesiologist assistants nationwide.

An anesthesiologist assistant is a specialized physician’s assistant who works under the direction of a licensed anesthesiologist, usually in a medical center. AA’s typically work with the anesthesiologist in developing and implementing the anesthesia care plan, and performing supportive functions during surgery.

Pre-operatively, the AA is trained to assess potential complications prior to a surgery by obtaining a thorough physical assessment and history. After surgery, the AA will continue to monitor the patient until vital signs are stable and he or she gains consciousness. Occasionally, the AA may be required to follow the patient in the Intensive Care Unit until the patient’s condition has stabilized after surgery.

Typically Anesthesiologist Assistants are employed in larger medical facilities that perform more staff intensive procedures such as cardiac surgery, neurosurgery, transplant surgery, and trauma care. However, AAs are found in hospitals of all sizes and assist anesthesiologists in a variety of settings and for a wide range of medical procedures.

Education requirements for Anesthesiologist Assistants:

If you have an interest in pursuing a career as an anesthesiologist assistant, you must have a BA or BS (baccalaureate degree) in almost any field, but you must have completed coursework in premedical courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and math.

Your post graduate work to earn your Anesthesiologist Assistant degree typically takes only an additional 24-30 months. Once you go to work in this field, you still have to get your certification to earn the top dollars. This process can take as long as an additional 6 years, but remember, you are already working and making a very good salary, straight out of school. Medical schools are gearing up to offer classes to meet the demand as quickly as possible, but it could take many years before the demand for these trained professionals is met.

For more information on the educational and certification requirements, contact www.anesthetistforum.com/

Written by Shelby Bateson