Many people interested in healthcare find anesthesiology appealing. Anesthesiologist assistants (AAs) play an important role in healthcare, ensuring patients are safe and comfortable during surgery. If you are considering this career, you are in the right place.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Florida ranks fifth for anesthesiologist employment, with a mean annual wage of $268,470 in 2019. Employment for physicians and surgeons is projected to grow by 7% from 2018 to 2028, outpacing average job growth. For more information regarding the statistics, see Anesthesiologists.
Anesthesiologist assistants work in various industries, most commonly in private physician offices, followed by general medical and surgical hospitals. Go through this article to get further information about this field.
If you are a resident of California, you can check out the Anesthesiologist Assistant Schools in California.
Anesthesiologist Assistant Schools in Florida
South University
Here is an overview of the institution:
- Accreditation: The accrediting body is the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
- Facilities and resources: This institution provides career services to aid in job placement, its library offers resources, and its lounge provides relaxation.
- Financial aid: I also noticed that it offers grants and loans.
South University’s Anesthesiologist Assistant program combines classroom theory with practical applications. Students use a mock operating room and anesthesia lab, supported by extensive library resources, including journals, databases, and over 400 textbooks.
I also noticed that in this institution, the program aims to prepare skilled entry-level anesthesiologist assistants proficient in cognitive, psychomotor, and affective learning domains. Students learn to provide safe anesthesia care for patients of all ages and conditions, enhancing their knowledge in physiology, pharmacology, patient monitoring, and anesthesia equipment.
For more information about the institution, see South University.
Nova Southeastern University
Here is an overview of the institution:
- Accreditation: Based on my findings, AA at this institution is accredited by CAAHEP.
- Facilities and resources: It also provides high-fidelity simulators, operating rooms, specialized labs, clinical rotations, and personalized faculty support for anesthesia training.
- Financial aids: I also learned that this institution offers academic scholarships, program discounts, employer assistance, and low-interest student loans.
While all Anesthesiologist Assistant (AA) programs aim to prepare you for board certification, Nova Southeastern University (NSU) stands out nationally. NSU offers four high-fidelity anesthesia simulators, fully functional operating rooms, and specialized labs.
I also notice that NSU ranks first for clinical rotation choices with sites worldwide, and provides individualized, 1:1 faculty mentoring. Professors are licensed anesthesiologists or certified anesthesiologist assistants with successful clinical practices and specialized educational skills.
For more information about the institution, see Master of Science in Anesthesia.
City College-Altamonte Springs
Here is an overview of the institution:
- Accreditation: The institution is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
- Facilities and resources: It has standout faculties and campuses.
- Financial aid: In this institution, about 57 percent of full-time undergraduates receive financial aid averaging $4,678, including grants and scholarships.
Based on my findings, this institution has an 80% acceptance rate. This makes admission somewhat selective. Ensure your application stands out amid the competition.
For more information about the institution, see City College.
In addition, this institution supports students through graduation or transfer, ensuring a smooth transition with a formal teach-out plan. The institution’s campuses offer academic advice, tutoring, and career services. City College will provide ongoing updates to staff and students.
How to Become an Anesthesiologist Assistant in Florida
If you want to become an anesthesiologist assistant in Florida, consider the following steps:
- Education and training: Enrolling in a CAAHEP-accredited anesthesiologist assistant program is the first step. These programs offer essential coursework, clinical experiences, and rotations in anesthesia principles, pharmacology, patient assessment, and techniques for professional preparation.
- Certification and licensure: After completing your education, take the NCCAA exam for certification and obtain an Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certificate, demonstrating your proficiency and ability to handle emergencies.
- Additional consideration: Be aware that certain criminal convictions may affect licensure eligibility. Review the Florida Statutes for detailed requirements on licensure, scope of practice, and other relevant aspects for anesthesiologist assistants.
How Much Does an AA Make in Florida?
An anesthesiologist assistant (AA) in Florida earns an average annual salary of approximately $45,075 as of May 28, 2024. Salaries can range from $40,008 to $51,667. This range is influenced by factors such as experience and location.
Urban areas like Miami or Tampa typically offer higher pay. The size of the healthcare facility also plays a role. Additional benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses, further impact compensation.
Experience levels significantly impact earnings, with entry-level professionals starting at the lower end of the scale and experienced AAs earning closer to the upper limit.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Anesthesiologist Assistant (AA) program in Florida is essential for a rewarding healthcare career. Researching accredited programs and exploring financial aid options are crucial steps. Florida’s AA programs offer comprehensive training and hands-on clinical experience, preparing you for a stable, impactful career in anesthesiology.