Who Gets to Be Called an Anesthesiologist?

As both a physician and a patient advocate, I think titles matter because patients deserve to know exactly who is caring for them. Clear credentials help build trust, especially when you’re facing surgery.

This July 2026 article by Dotinga, published in Medscape Medical News, explains that the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology withdrew trademark applications for additional “nurse anesthesiologist” name variations after objections from physician anesthesiologists. The broader debate over whether the title “anesthesiologist” should be reserved for physicians is expected to continue, with both sides emphasizing patient care but differing on how professional titles should be used.

What do you think? Should the title “anesthesiologist” be reserved only for physicians?

Learn More: https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/anesthesiologist-mds-beat-crnas-trademark-fight-2026a1000n29?form=fpf