Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 11/30/2009

Question
Hi My name is Timothy. I am thinking about becoming a anesthesiologist, but i know there are different types. What types are there, and what is the best choice so that i can spend the most amount of time with my family? Also what classes should i take in high school?

Answer
There are no different types of anethesiolgists. Some anesthesiologists sub-specialize in hearts, pediatrics, ICU or pain but they are all still anesthesiogists. If you want to spend alot of time with the family then medicine may not be for you but depending on the type of practice you go into and how much compensation you want, you can work as much or as little as you want. As for high school, there is nothing particular to study. You need to finish high school, then 4 yrs of college, then 4 yrs of medical school and THEN start 4 yrs of anesthesia training.

Ronald Levy, MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston