Opportunities for Indian Anaesthesiologists in the USA

Dr. Avani Ghonge

Fellow, Anesthesia Critical Care

University of Iowa, USA

Opportunities for Indian Anaesthesiologists in the USA

The United States offers excellent opportunities for Indian anaesthesiologists, whether junior or senior, fresh or experienced. However, entering the American medical system involves clearing licensing hurdles and fulfilling training requirements.

To practise in the USA, Indian doctors must pass all three steps of the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination). This earns ECFMG certification, allowing international medical graduates (IMGs) to apply for training positions. While anaesthesiology is competitive, candidates with good scores, clinical exposure, and strong recommendations have successfully pursued fellowships in areas like cardiac anaesthesia, paediatrics, regional blocks, pain management, or critical care—without repeating residency!

One exciting new option is Clinical Informatics, a unique superspecialty training physicians in healthcare IT and digital medicine.

Many US-trained anaesthesiologists do not pursue fellowships post-residency, leaving fellowship seats unfilled—a valuable opportunity for qualified IMGs. Moreover, the post-pandemic demand for trained anaesthesiologists has further widened this gap.

Beyond clinical roles, opportunities also exist in research, teaching, and the medical industry—ranging from innovation in patient safety to anaesthesia device development and pharma trials. The work culture, infrastructure, work-family balance and scope for growth make the USA a rewarding destination.

I am a proud alumni of GMC Nagpur anesthesia department, completed my IDCCM diploma in critical care followed by fellowship in cardiac surgical ICU in India. After moving to the USA, I prioritized my family and took a long break of 15 yrs from the clinical arena, while working in clinical research and academia (mostly part time)! Pandemic brought the awakening and took my USMLE steps- after celebrating the Silver Jubilee! I matched for critical care fellowship within 2 months of passing step 3. With my experience, I can confidently say: YOU CAN DO IT.

Never say “I can’t,” never say die.

Don’t give up—just give one more try!

For those willing to persevere, the path is challenging but absolutely worth it.