What is an Anaesthetist?

An anaesthetist is a specialist doctor, like the surgeon, who has completed a medical degree at university and then done a period of specialist hospital training to become an anaesthetist. They are experts in all forms of anaesthesia, intensive care, emergency care, pain management and peri-operative medicine. The anaesthetist’s role encompasses all aspects of medicine related to the care of patients before, during and after surgery. They will prepare you for surgery, and then carefully and safely look after you during your surgery, and will remain with you for the entire duration of your operation, until you are awake in the recovery room. They will also arrange appropriate postoperative care and pain control.

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Your anaesthetist is registered with the Australian & New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA) or equivalent. Current knowledge and skills are continually maintained by participation in the ANZCA Continuing Professional Development Program.