Celebrating National Anaesthesia Day

Wavelength Medical Recruitment celebrates ANZCA National Anaesthesia Day, recognising anaesthetists in Australia. Features experience of two anaesthetists. 

At Wave, we're passionate about connecting talented doctors with life-changing opportunities across Australia and New Zealand. As a leading medical recruitment company, we understand that behind every successful medical procedure is a team of dedicated professionals – none more critical than the anaesthetists who ensure patient safety and comfort. This is why National Anaesthesia Day is particularly important to us.

Anaesthetists are often the unsung heroes in the operating room, responsible for managing pain, monitoring vital signs, and ensuring patients undergo surgery safely and smoothly. This day gives us a chance to shine a spotlight on their expertise and to acknowledge their critical role in healthcare. At Wavelength, we recognise the immense value anaesthetists bring to healthcare settings, and we take pride in helping both local and international anaesthetists find fulfilling roles in Australia and New Zealand.

For international medical graduates (IMGs), the path to practising as an anaesthetist in Australia can be challenging, but the rewards are well worth it. Take Dr Raghunanda Narasimhaiah, for example, who recently embarked on his new role as an anaesthetist in South Australia.

Reflecting on his journey, he shared,
“I am very happy and excited about my new job in SA as an Anaesthetist. The whole journey of an IMG, from day 1 registration with AMC to obtaining a visa, gives an insight into one's own career. This journey taught me to file every small detail about one’s career. This helped me to sail through all the requirements without any difficulty. Now I am looking forward to starting a new phase of my life in Australia.”

Stories like Dr. Narasimhaiah's remind us of the resilience and dedication it takes to pursue a career in anaesthesia, especially as an IMG navigating a new healthcare system. Supporting these doctors through their career transitions is a privilege, and it’s inspiring to see them thrive in their roles and make a difference in patients' lives.

The importance of recognising anaesthetists extends beyond their clinical skill set. Dr Manoj Mallikahewa, another accomplished anaesthetist, exemplifies this with his commitment to improving patient care.
He explained how a collaborative approach to patient safety and satisfaction made a difference in his work:
“I recognised some challenges with the pre-anaesthetic procedure prior to women having caesarean sections and reached out to all stakeholders, including the antenatal clinic and the labour ward, to seek midwives’ opinions, because we are all part of the team taking care of the patient. We improved our plan, the physical status, and communication to further improve the patient journey."

This dedication to holistic, patient-centred care is what makes anaesthetists so vital to the healthcare system. They are not just technical experts – they are compassionate team players, innovators, and advocates for patient safety.

The ANZCA National Anaesthesia Day 2024 Theme, You're in Safe Hands', is reflected in Dr Manoj Mallikahewa's sentiment.
"For safe anaesthesia, patient education brings about patient satisfaction,” he said.

At Wavelength, we celebrate these remarkable professionals on National Anaesthesia Day and every day. We are proud to help anaesthetists, whether local or international, find opportunities that allow them to make a meaningful impact in their patients’ lives. Today is a reminder of the invaluable role they play and how crucial it is to support and recognise their contributions to healthcare.

Thank you to all anaesthetists for the critical work you do – we couldn’t imagine healthcare without you!