Future of anesthesia.

The authors present an account of some of the problems facing the specialty of anesthesia, which suggests that the interdependence of these problems and of their solutions should be recognized. Recruitment, job satisfaction and clinical standards will be improved as a result of greater involvement by anesthetists in preanesthetic care as part of the health care team. Teaching programs require appropriate expansion and modification. The incorporation of a physician-assistant program is essential to the future of anesthesia.