By Joseph F. Answine, M.D.
An Anesthesiologist:
- Is a licensed physician (M.D. or D.O.) who has successfully completed an undergraduate education (most commonly a B.S. or B.A. degree), a medical education, an anesthesiology training program and possibly a sub-specialty fellowship (12 or more years of education after high school including at least four or more years of training after medical school)
- Provides anesthesia directly, or acts as the director or leader of the “anesthesia care team”
- Always retains the overall responsibility for the patient
An Anesthesiology Fellow:
- Has completed an anesthesiology training program and has obtained additional education in one of the sub-specialties of anesthesiology (cardiothoracic, neurosurgical, obstetric, pediatric, pain management or intensive care)
- Undergoes additional training that may be months to years depending on the sub-specialty selected and training program
An Anesthesiology Resident:
- Is a licensed physician (M.D. or D.O.) enrolled in an accredited anesthesiology training program
- Practices under the supervision of an anesthesiologist