By Llywellenie Mpasa:
The President of the Society of Anaesthesiologists (SOA) Malawi, Delia Mabedi, has said anaesthesiology services play a vital role in health delivery.
Speaking ahead of the College of Anaesthesiologists of East, Central and Southern Africa (Canecsa) Annual Regional Scientific Conference, scheduled for December4 to 6, Mabedi said the assembly will bring numerous benefits to Malawi.
“Anaesthesiologists enable safe surgeries, manage pain, and improve maternal and child health indicators,” she said.
Mabedi added that the conference will inspire the next generation of anaesthesia professionals, both locally and regionally.
She further stated that the conference aims to enhance awareness regarding anaesthesia and encourage others to join the profession.
“The retention of trained anaesthesia professionals within Malawi is a big advantage, as local training has proven effective in maintaining skilled personnel in the country,” she said.
Under the theme ‘Strengthening Anaesthesia Education, Workforce and Well-being in Africa’, this year’s conference is expected to address challenges and advancements in anaesthesia, perioperative care, pain management and intensive care across the region.
Mabedi, who also serves as the Chief Anaesthesiologist at Zomba Central Hospital, said the conference will provide a crucial platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration among healthcare professionals.
“This will be a unique opportunity for all participants and stakeholders to connect with global leaders, exchange ideas and explore the latest developments in anaesthesia and intensive care,” she said.
She also mentioned that SOA Malawi supports the education of anaesthesia technicians, who constitute the majority of anaesthesia providers in the country.
“The society is dedicated to improving the workforce and promoting the anaesthesia profession through scholarships and various initiatives,” she said.
However, Mabedi acknowledged that challenges remain in the profession.
She identified the shortage of human resources as a major obstacle, affecting many aspects of anaesthesiology, including training more personnel and managing the society.
The Canecsa Annual Regional Scientific Conference is set to become a landmark event for Malawi’s anaesthesia community, marking what is described as a critical step towards enhancing healthcare across the region.
Anaesthesiology is a medical specialty focused on the administration of anaesthesia and the management of pain.
The field requires extensive training, including a medical degree and several years of residency focused on anaesthesia and related care.
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