Anesthesiologists
Overview
Introduction
Anesthesiologists are physicians who specialize in the planning, performance, and maintenance of a patients anesthesia during surgical, obstetric, or other medical procedures. Using special equipment, monitors, and drugs, the anesthesiologist makes sure the patient feels no pain and remains uninjured during the procedure. There are approximately 33,470 anesthesiologists employed in the United States.
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
Salaries for anesthesiologists vary according to the kind of practice (whether the anesthesiologist works individually or as part of a group practice), the amount of overhead required to maintain the business, and geographic location. They work fewer hours than other doctors, but can make equivalent or higher salaries.
Physicians who were still in their residencies earned an average of b...
Work Environment
Anesthesiologists typically work in well-equipped, well-lighted, well-ventilated hospitals. There are also opportunities at ambulatory care clinics and separate surgical centers, which also require a clean and well-lit environment. Since most surgeries are scheduled in advance, an anesthesiologists work hours are fairly regular, especially compared to those of some other types of physicians. An...
Outlook
Job opportunities for physicians and surgeons, including anesthesiologists, are expected to grow as fast as the average through 2032, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook. This overall growth can be attributed to the expansion of the health care industry, in addition to the medical needs of the growing elderly population. Most anesthesiologists find work immediately after fin...