What is the process to become an anesthesiologist?

Becoming a licensed anesthesia professional takes many years of education and practice. Steel City Anesthesia recognizes the commitment it takes to obtain credentials in anesthesiology and strives to employ well-trained and qualified professionals. Continue reading to learn more about the study of anesthesia and how providers obtain a degree.

Education to Become an Anesthesiologist

The education route to become an anesthesiologist begins with obtaining a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as biology or natural sciences. After completing what typically is a four-year undergraduate program, students must pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Once completed, students embark on another four-year program in medical school. 

During medical school, students begin to study for the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) which is required by all states to obtain a medical license. Students can take the first two parts of this test before obtaining their medical degree, and the last part after obtaining their medical degree. 


Those studying anesthesiology must be well-rounded in other areas of study as well such as pharmacology and physiology. Students undergo rigorous coursework to prepare for all possible outcomes while working with patients. Students also learn how to monitor patients’ vitals before, during and after anesthesia, as well as respiratory rates, airways and pulmonary and cardiovascular health.

Training to Become an Anesthesiologist

Once a student finishes medical school, they move on to a four-year residency program where they are able to establish and practice their skills in real-life situations. Residency is usually a time for soon-to-be anesthesiologists to choose subspecialities and focuses. 

Students must apply for a medical license in the state they plan to be working in, regardless of where they obtained their degree. Approval is granted to those who finish the program entirely. For those seeking to become board certified, the American Board of Physician Specialties (ABPS) and the American Board of Anesthesiology (ABA) offer an exam for students to pass and increase their chances of employment.

The entire process to become an anesthesia practitioner takes around 12 years to complete for most people.

How Steel City Anesthesia Can Help

At Steel City Anesthesia, we take pride in our turnkey service. Steel City Anesthesia takes care of recruitment, credentialing, scheduling, training, payment and liabilities to ease the responsibilities of our partners. By working with us, our partnership allows providers to improve patient safety and increase satisfaction while also reducing the need for additional staff members.