Issues of concern for the aging anesthesiologist
The medical specialty of anesthesiology has the potential to provide great benefit and great harm to the anesthesiologist, as well as the patient. The process of aging imparts some definite advantages and some disadvantages to a practicing anesthesiologist. From a purely biologic perspective, aging is associated with a predictable and progressive deterioration in mental, physical, and behavioral functions. However, healthy aging is associated with experience, mental growth, wisdom, and enhanced capacity for prudence, reasoning, and planning. By applying the same degree of forethought to this stage as has been brought to bear on previous transitions in professional life, the older anesthesiologist can continue to actively participate in a productive practice.