Congratulations to our cardiothoracic anesthesiology faculty members Stephen A. Esper, MD, MBA; Joshua Knight, MD, FASE; Luca La Colla, MD, MSHI; Harikesh Subramanian, MBBS, MS; and Elizabeth Ungerman, MD, MS (pictured above, left to right), who all passed the inaugural American Board of Anesthesiology (ABA) Adult Cardiac Anesthesiology (ACA) Exam.
The evolving landscape of healthcare has witnessed a surge in the demand for physicians specializing in advanced cardiac diseases, propelling the growth of the cardiothoracic anesthesiology subspecialty. This shift is substantiated by the Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists, which, over a decade, observed an escalating need for specialized cardiac anesthesiology care in the US. The trend is further exemplified by a noteworthy 30% increase in applications to ACGME-accredited ACA fellowship programs in the last five years, indicating a rising interest in this specialized certification.
This new ABA program now offers a structured pathway to certification in ACA - a subspecialty that distinguishes experts in imaging, diagnosis, physiology, pharmacology, and care management for adults facing advanced cardiac diseases. This certification signifies proficiency in cutting-edge techniques, interventions, and the latest treatment technologies. The first-ever ABA ACA exam took place on December 2, 2023.
Physicians holding an ACA subspecialty certification are recognized as authorities in the comprehensive care of adults with cardiac diseases, showcasing expertise in imaging, diagnosis, physiology, pharmacology, and the application of advanced treatment methodologies and technologies. This accomplishment not only reflects the individual success of our faculty members but also contributes to the advancement of specialized care in the evolving field of cardiothoracic anesthesiology.