An Anesthesiologist Assistant (AA) is a relatively new profession in the Anesthesia Care Team (ACT). Anesthesiologist assistants are skilled medical professionals trained to assist the anesthesiologist in treating patients. Normally, they are expected to perform administrative tasks like collecting patient data and database management. They will need to be able to perform physical exams, administer anesthesia, monitor patients under anesthesia, insert invasive monitoring devices and operate advanced life support systems from time to time. They can also administer regional anesthesia. The AA will also do post-anesthesia rounds on recovering patients. These duties are performed under the anesthesiologist’s direct supervision and directive. Not all states allow AAs to practice at this time so be sure to check the state statutes where you would like to practice.
- Obtain your bachelor’s degree. The profession requires at least a bachelor’s degree with an emphasis in the sciences such as chemistry and biology. Technically, a pre-med program would be the best option for your tertiary anesthesiologist schooling and training. Choose an accredited college or university with a good science or pre-med program. This is a competitive field and excellent academics are required. Typically the stated GPA is around 3.0 although in reality it is generally around 3.40 minimum. Apply to an accredited school where anesthesiologist assistant degrees are granted.
- Take the GRE or MCAT. Depending upon which school you apply to, one of these pre-admission tests is required. Generally, either test can be retaken to try to achieve the desired score. The best score possible will assist in getting accepted.
- Get job shadowing experience. Most schools require a minimum number of job shadowing experience in the ACT before admission is granted. If you know someone in the field they can help you get this requirement met. If not, get in contact with the local operating room (OR) supervisor and let them know what you need for your specific program. They are generally helpful in getting in touch with the anesthesia department and arranging for job shadowing time.
- Complete a graduate program. There are around 10 schools that offer a master’s program in this area. Be aware that schools that offer a master’s of science in nursing (MSN) in anesthesia are completely different programs and require a bachelor’s degree in nursing prior to admission. The program takes a full 24 months to complete, and only full time study is allowed. The anesthesiology assisting program is rigorous and can require long, demanding hours when a clinical component is underway. However, this will mirror the work environment upon graduation. Didactic and clinical classes may be scheduled seven days per week on occasion, depending upon patient load. There are only small breaks in the schedule for vacation time, so be prepared for a busy two years.
- Get certified. The last step in becoming an anesthesiologist assistant is to get certified. To accomplish this, you will need to apply for certification at the National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants or NCCAA. While certification may not be a requirement to practice, it will make you more marketable.
- Salary and job availability. An average anesthesiologist assistant earns around $80,000 to $100,000 a year. With more experience and a more reputable credential, you can up your earnings to $150,000 in some jobs. There is a critical shortage of anesthesia personnel, and growth rate is expected to exceed 25% in the next 10 years.
An anesthesiology assistant is a relatively new profession, so you will be entering the career at a time when you can be a pioneer. It will not be an easy road to become an AA, but the ability to guide someone through a surgical procedure comfortably and safely is very rewarding.