Survey Findings Reveal Patient Confusion Over Role of Anesthesiologist

Results of a new American Medical Association survey indicate many patients are confused and lack an understanding of the role of a physician anesthesiologist, according to a news release from the American Society of Anesthesiologists.

Here are three particularly noteworthy findings from the survey:

1. 20 percent of respondents did not know an anesthesiologist is a medical doctor.
2. 80 percent thought only a medical doctor should administer spinal injections to treat chronic pain.
3. 70 percent thought only a medical doctor should administer and monitor anesthesia levels before and after surgery.

The AMA survey was released to support The Healthcare Truth and Transparency Act of 2011, a bill which the ASA supports as well.

Read the statement in support of the bill from the American Society of Anesthesiologists.

Read more about and from the ASA:

- ASA "Extremely Troubled" About Removal of Sodium Thiopental From Market

- ASA Opposes Federal Trade Commission's Stance on Non-Physicians' Ability to Practice Pain Management

- ASA Clarifies Medically Induced Coma Versus Sedation