Why anesthesiologists say a Michigan hospital is risking patient safety

Anesthesiologists are experts at using varying levels of anesthesia and sedation to help patients undergo medical procedures without pain.

However, a group of Michigan anesthesiologists has said they’re being sidelined and replaced at Corewell Health West by emergency medicine and intensive care unit doctors with less expertise in anesthesia.

The Michigan Society of Anesthesiologists (MSA) has begun a billboard and media campaign urging patients to demand a board-certified anesthesiologist for any upcoming procedures.

“While my physician colleagues are highly trained doctors, they lack the expertise that uniquely qualifies anesthesiologists to manage challenges to a patient’s airway and other complications that could occur during or after anesthesia,” said Dr. Kathryn Wladischkin, an anesthesiologist and president of West Michigan Anesthesia (WMA).

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A spokesperson for Corewell Health West didn’t directly respond to MLive’s questions about its staffing policies or any recent changes, but provided a statement that said:

“Patient safety is our top priority. All health care providers at Corewell Health providing sedation or anesthesia services are held to the same high-quality privileging and safety standards. We continuously monitor safety and quality and the data shows our teams continue to deliver safe, high-quality care.”

The recent messaging campaign comes after WMA and Corewell failed to extend their contract, which expired earlier this month. Wladischkin said negotiations have ceased, though WMA would be willing to get back to the table.

Dr. Matt Dellaquila, MSA’s president-elect, said anesthesiologists are vital to keeping patients safe when they are under anesthesia, including if they flatline or have a seizure, heart attack or stroke during surgery.

The sedation experts are uniquely trained to anticipate complications and lead crisis response. They complete 12 to 14 years of postsecondary education and training on how to guide patients safely through anesthesia, according to MSA.