Strategically Addressing Anesthesia Workforce Challenges: Aligning Goals & Proactive Strategies

Anesthesia workforce shortages are intensifying, and healthcare leaders are feeling the impact. In early 2020, 35% of healthcare facilities reported shortages. By late 2022, that number surged to 78%—and this trend shows no sign of slowing down. With surgical services accounting for roughly 60% of a facility's revenue, maintaining adequate anesthesia coverage is essential for both patient care and financial stability.

During the ASA Advance 2025 Anesthesiology Business Event, Medicus hosted a session with two experienced anesthesia leaders. The session explored how strategic alignment can help anesthesia practices and hospitals strengthen clinical workforces for both short and long-term stabilization.

Featured Speakers:

Anesthesia Workforce Trends

By 2036, the U.S. could face a shortage of 6,300 anesthesiologists. Meanwhile, the demand for surgical services is expected to rise by 2-3% over the next decade, further straining an already limited workforce.

What's Driving the Anesthesia Provider Shortage?

During the discussion, Dr. Minhaj and Mr. Belanger highlighted two primary factors fueling the shortfall:

With 1 in 5 Americans projected to be 65 or older by 2030, the aging population is driving a significant increase in the demand for surgical services. By 2034, procedures for adults 65 and older are expected to rise from 31% to 39%, further intensifying the need for anesthesia providers.

Despite the growing demand for anesthesia services, the supply of anesthesiologists entering the workforce remains restricted due to limited residency positions. In the 2024 Match, only 1,695 anesthesiology residency positions were available, leaving 44% of applicants unmatched. While residency slots have increased in recent years, the growth rate remains insufficient to meet demand. Additionally, the transition to a doctorate requirement for CRNAs has introduced further delays in workforce entry.

With anesthesia provider shortages anticipated to persist, finding ways to stabilize staffing while ensuring high-quality patient care is more important than ever.

Building Strategic Alignment in Anesthesia Workforce Planning

To manage workforce shortages effectively, healthcare organizations should prioritize a staffing strategy that focuses on leadership alignment, clear communication, and cross-team collaboration. Mr. Belanger and Dr. Minhaj shared key insights from their own experience in workforce planning and how organizations can stay ahead.

Strategies for Alignment:

Building Trust & Transparency

Building a cohesive anesthesia workforce strategy starts with leadership promoting a culture of trust and transparency. Mr. Belanger and Dr. Minhaj highlighted the importance of consistent, candid conversations and a willingness to address challenges directly. When leadership is aligned, it creates the foundation for more effective workforce planning and operational success.

Expanding Team Engagement

Engaging more team members in discussions is essential for long-term stability. As leadership roles evolve, having a broader group actively involved in learning the business and contributing to daily strategy strengthens the organization’s foundation and ensures continuity for the future.

Improving Cross-Department Collaboration

Strategic alignment extends beyond anesthesia leadership—it requires collaboration across departments. Both Mr. Belanger and Dr. Minhaj emphasized the value of bringing chiefs, CRNAs, physicians, surgeons, and nurses into key decision meetings to gather all perspectives. This approach helps with communication between departments and ensures all parties have the opportunity to provide input on key decisions.

Proactive Staffing Strategies for Anesthesia Workforce Stability

Addressing anesthesia workforce shortages calls for a proactive approach and a willingness to explore innovative staffing solutions. Mr. Belanger emphasized the importance of flexibility in workforce planning, including leveraging interim healthcare staffing partners such as Medicus to ensure continuity and operational stability during periods of staffing fluctuation.

Future-Proofing Healthcare Staffing:

Interim staffing solutions play a crucial role in bridging workforce gaps and ensuring uninterrupted access to surgical services. Partnering with experienced interim healthcare staffing agencies like Medicus offers the reliability and staffing needed to maintain operational efficiency.

Change management programs and project-based solutions equip healthcare leaders with resources to meet immediate demands while preparing for future growth. Dr. Minhaj shared how Endeavor Health leveraged the Medicus Transition Program to stabilize its anesthesia service line. Medicus was able to quickly stabilize anesthesia service lines and maintain seamless operations, allowing his organization to focus on recruiting permanent providers.

Key Considerations for Anesthesia Workforce Planning

As the conversation came to a close, both Mr. Belanger and Dr. Minhaj shared advice for anesthesia leaders in navigating the anesthesia provider shortage.

Dr. Minhaj stressed the importance of celebrating small wins. Change can be difficult, but highlighting real benefits helps shift perspectives. For example, some physicians may be hesitant about locum tenens. However, when they see that staffing support keeps ORs open, ensures on-time procedures, and provides more consistent schedules, they’re more likely to recognize the value.

Analytics can uncover trends and help predict staffing shortages before they happen. For example, noticing recurring gaps in coverage around the holidays allows leaders to adjust schedules in advance and avoid care disruptions.

Partnering with a reliable interim healthcare staffing firm helps maintain anesthesia coverage while supporting long-term workforce planning. The Medicus Transition Program offers a structured approach to sustaining service levels, managing daily operations, and bridging gaps as organizations recruit permanent physicians—ensuring seamless patient care.

Securing the Future of Anesthesia Workforce Stability

As the gap between the supply and demand of anesthesia providers continues to widen, healthcare organizations that can secure and retain top talent will have a significant competitive advantage in the years to come. Strategic workforce planning, strong partnerships, and innovative staffing solutions are key to staying ahead. By investing in these areas today, organizations can ensure long-term stability, operational efficiency, and exceptional patient care.

Interested in learning more about the Medicus Transition Program? Click here.