Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 12/31/2009

Question
I live in San Antonio, Texas and I also want to be an Anesthesiologist, and my question is, Is there a closer University that I can attend. Also do you enjoy what you do for a living? What is more in demand an Anesthesiologist or an Anesthesiologist Assistant/ Nurse Anesthesiologist? Are all those years of school worth all that money? Is there a program that can pay for your school such as a Hospital that makes a contract with you?

Answer
Closer than what? You first have to get through college then medical school and then anesthesiology residency. A total of 12 yrs after high school. I do enjoy my work. As for demand, they are both in demand. Is it worth the money? If you like what you do, the money isn't an issue. If you don't like what you do, no money is worth it. There are some hospitals that will pay for CRNA education if you commit to a certain number of years post graduation but they are few and far between.


Ronald Levy, MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston