New Graduate Studies Program to Develop Certified Anesthesiologist Assistants

NEOMED’s College of Graduate Studies has launched a new degree program to develop Certified Anesthesiologist Assistants (CAA).

The Master of Medical Science in Anesthesia is one of only 13 programs in the country. It is currently accepting applications for an inaugural cohort of students to begin in January 2022. The program will combine didactic education, clinical rotations, and high-fidelity simulation to prepare students for careers as certified anesthesiologist assistants (CAAs). Program director Nathaniel Flath, an experienced CAA himself, is also the president-elect for the Ohio Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants.

The need for the program was determined during NEOMED’s strategic planning process as the University focused on creating transformational leaders, delivering exceptional experiences for students and improving health in communities. Analysis revealed that CAAs are nationally in-demand professionals who earn top-level salaries while serving as highly effective extensions to physician anesthesiologists.  

What do CAAs do?

CAAs are an integral part of the anesthesia care team, working with physician anesthesiologists to provide safe, patient-centered care throughout various types of surgeries. The anesthesia care team can consist of one physician anesthesiologist and, in Ohio, up to four Certified Anesthesiologist Assistants. CAAs care for some of the most ill patients ― often during their most vulnerable times of need ― medically guiding the patient throughout the preoperative, intraoperative, and immediate postoperative periods of their surgeries.

All CAAs possess a premedical background, a baccalaureate degree, and must complete a comprehensive didactic and clinical program at the graduate school level. They are trained extensively in the delivery and maintenance of quality anesthesia care as well as advanced patient monitoring techniques.  

The Master of Medical Science in Anesthesia degree program’s website provides details about how to apply, curriculum, tuition and more.