Anesthesiologist (Cardiac-Trained Preferred)

Location: Hickory, North Carolina – Frye Regional Medical Center and Caldwell Memorial Hospital

Status: Full-time, Exempt; potential path to partnership

About the Role

The General Anesthesiologist will provide anesthetics at two hospital locations and four ambulatory surgery centers in the Hickory division. Responsibilities include conducting patient evaluations, examinations, and medical histories to develop anesthetic plans, as well as supervising certified registered nurse anesthetists to ensure safe, high-quality care. The role involves a variety of general outpatient procedures and surgeries, with a focus on strong regional anesthesia techniques. Cardiac cases may include CABGs, valves, and a busy TAVR program, utilizing a new TAVR suite in collaboration with heart surgeons and cardiologists.

Responsibilities

• Prepares and administers general and regional anesthetics and pain medication, adjusting as needed before, during, and after surgery and other procedures.
• Provides anesthesia maintenance and adjustment throughout procedures.
• Maintains accurate patient records.
• Orders diagnostic tests as needed and works closely with surgical specialists.
• Performs venous and arterial punctures, pre-anesthesia evaluations, and post-anesthesia care.
• Provides and monitors mechanical ventilation, including tracheal intubation, airway management, and extubation.
• Communicates with patients, families, and caregivers regarding care plans and post-operative recovery.
• Evaluates patient histories, lab results, and surgical plans to determine appropriate anesthesia and pain management strategies.
• Monitors patient fluid, blood, and electrolyte balance, as well as vital signs and critical functions during procedures.
• Supervises registered nurse anesthetists, technical staff, and mentors anesthesiology interns, residents, and fellows.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Medical degree (MD or DO) from an accredited medical school.
• Board certification or eligibility (BC/BE) in anesthesiology.
• NC state medical license.
• Minimum 3+ years of experience providing anesthetics in a high-acuity or similar setting.
• Strong regional anesthesia skills; fellowship not required.
• Preferred: Cardiac-trained or TEE experience.

Skills

• Excellent communication, bedside manner, and organizational skills.
• Strong commitment to patient care and safety.
• Ability to thrive in a team-oriented, performance-driven environment.

Work Environment

• Work performed primarily in an office and clinical environment.
• Frequent contact with patients, physicians, and medical office staff.
• May involve stressful situations and disruptive interactions.