Anesthesiologist
Anesthesiologists are physicians who specialize in perioperative care, pain management, and critical care medicine.
Getting Started
How to Become a Anesthesiologist
At 13 years to get started, this takes longer than the 10.6 years average for Doctoral Degree-level careers.
Complete Education
Earn your Doctoral Degree (typically 13 years) at an estimated cost of $250k–$375k.
Get Licensed or Certified
Complete any state-required licensing or certification exams for anesthesiologist practice.
Begin Working
Anesthesiologist earn a median salary of $337k/yr, with entry-level positions starting somewhat lower.
Education costs from College Scorecard. Training timelines from BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Overview
What Does a Anesthesiologist Do?
Anesthesiologists are physicians who specialize in perioperative care, pain management, and critical care medicine. They administer anesthesia to patients during surgical, therapeutic, and diagnostic procedures, ensuring patient safety by monitoring vital life functions. Anesthesiology is one of the highest-paid medical specialties.
On the Job
Compensation
How Much Does a Anesthesiologist Make?
At $337k/yr, anesthesiologist earn more than most Doctoral Degree-level careers, where the average is $262k/yr.
$337k/yr
median annual salary
How It Compares
| Career | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Anesthesiologist | $337k/yr |
| Home Health Aide | $34k/yr |
| Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) | $39k/yr |
| Physician Assistant | $130k/yr |
| General Surgeon | $355k/yr |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024
Future-Proofing
Anesthesiologist Job Outlook (2024–2034)
Employment Growth
The BLS projects 3% growth over the next decade, roughly in line with the 4.8% average for Doctoral Degree-level careers.
10-Year Growth
3%
About as fast as average
Current Employment
32k
jobs nationwide
AI & Automation Risk
Moderate Exposure
Anesthesiologist roles have moderate exposure to AI automation — roughly average among Doctoral Degree-level careers. While some administrative tasks may be augmented by AI, core duties still require human expertise. Core responsibilities like state licensing requirements require human presence and judgment that AI cannot replicate.
Why It's Safe
- +Assisting and caring for others
- +Establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships
- +Handling and moving objects
- +Coaching and developing others
- +Developing and building teams
What Could Be Automated
- −Making decisions and solving problems
- −Getting information
- −Monitoring processes, materials, or surroundings
- −Evaluating information to determine compliance with standards
- −Analyzing data or information
Based on Pew Research + O*NET methodology and Bureau of Labor Statistics projections
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Sources
Data Freshness
BLS OEWS: 2024-05 · BLS Projections: 2024-09 · O*NET: 2024-12