Everything You Need to Know About Becoming an Anesthesiologist

Anesthesiology is a profession within the medical field and is currently one of the most in-demand careers. However, becoming an anesthesiologist is no small feat. It takes years of diligence, education and intense training to become licensed and start your career. To get started, here’s everything you need to know about how to become an anesthesiologist.

What is an Anesthesiologist?

An anesthesiologist is a person who administers a safe dosage of anesthetics to patients in surgery. Their job is to also educate patients of the type of anesthesia they will receive and to monitor their vitals during the operation. They primarily work in hospitals and surgical centers, but may also choose to operate in clinics and private offices. Anesthesiologists can also work in a medical institution or academic settings to instruct aspiring students.

How Much Does It Cost to Become an Anesthesiologist?

The education of an anesthesiologist is one of the most expensive investments you’ll ever make. You can expect to pay an average total of $330,000 for this career. The overall cost is determined by your college and the medical school you chose. 

Bear in mind, college and medical school are not the same thing. Private lenders are a medical student’s best friend thanks to their lower than average interest rates. Traditional lenders can offer seven to as much 10 percent on your loans. 7% of $330,000 equates to an additional $23,310. So, if you're trying to find a more flexible option, then borrowing private loans for medical school may be the right choice.

Educational Requirements

It can take up to 12 years to become an anesthesiologist. You’ll begin your journey into the world of medicine and anesthetics by first completing a bachelor’s degree. It’s best to major in a field, like biology or chemistry to prepare for the rigors of med school. Because competition is so high for medical schools, you will need to pass with a high GPA. 

Before you graduate, however, you have to pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). This mandatory exam determines a student's eligibility for cal school. You’ll need to develop good study habits to prepare for this rigorous exam. The average passing score you want to aim for is at least 512. The maximum score you can achieve is 528, which is what you want to strive for. After you complete your four years of medical school, you must complete a four-year residency. Then, you must pass the board exam, complete a fellowship, and earn your medical license.

Earning Potential and Career Opportunity

Anesthesiologists can earn as much as doctors and surgeons with an average salary of $261,730 per year. This is a lot of money and you’ll need to know how to manage your finances smartly so you can avoid being one of those people who makes a lot, but does not have a lot. There are available positions all over the country, so you can expect plenty of job opportunities no matter where you decide to settle down. 

Additionally, many anesthesiologists pursue a specialization. Options for this career path include cardiothoracic anesthesia, critical care, hospice or palliative care, pediatric anesthesia and regional anesthesia. As you work through your residency, you may discover a passion for an area of medicine that you decide to pursue further. While specializations do lengthen your training, they can also set you up for even greater earning potential later.

This is a guest blog entry.