Training and development of anesthesia in Nepal - 1985 to 2005

To describe the self-sustaining anesthesia training and development program in Nepal from 1985 through 2005, and the Canadian contributions.

We examined the training program and outcome of the diploma in anesthesia (DA) and MD anesthesiology programs in Nepal over a 20-year period. Issues related to recruitment, funding, specialist training opportunities and professional development were examined and summarized.

In 1985 there were seven Nepalese physician anesthesiologists in Nepal. With Canadian support of faculty members and the Canadian Anesthesiologists' Society International Education Fund, a one-year DA training program began in 1985, and a three-year MD anesthesia program began in 1996. As of 2005, 43 anesthesiologists were trained in the DA program, and 19 Nepalese completed MD anesthesia training. Thirteen (30%) of DA graduates have since left the country, compared to only two (10.5%) physicians from the MD anesthesia training program. Annual anesthesia symposia began in 1986, and the Society of Anesthesiologists of Nepal was formed in 1987. Nepalese anesthesiologists have been attending and presenting papers at international scientific meetings since 1991.

The devotion of Nepalese anesthesiologists in teaching and training, strong guidance from Canadian medical faculties, and local government support have contributed to the successful development of Nepalese anesthesia training programs. Establishment of the training programs has assisted recruitment of trained anesthesiologists to different regional hospitals. Finally, the formation of a national society, with an organized annual symposium has improved professional self-esteem, and raised the profile of anesthesiology in Nepal.