January 26 - February 1, 2020: Physician Anesthesiologists Week

WHEREAS, more than 100 million operations and procedures are performed every year with anesthesia, and physician anesthesiologists play a critical role, before, during, and after procedures, making patient safety their top priority; and,

WHEREAS, anesthesia is safer than ever before, but there always is a potential for complications and side effects, and physician anesthesiologists have the training and expertise to help minimize risks, monitor for any problems, and take quick action; and,

WHEREAS, when seconds count and/or when emergencies or complications occur unexpectedly, physician anesthesiologists draw on their extensive medical education and years of clinical training and experience to make critical decisions that save lives; and,

WHEREAS, physician anesthesiologists are committed to high quality and safe patient care and educating patients to make their anesthesia safer, reduce risk of complication, and recover from surgery; and,

WHEREAS, physician anesthesiologists are recognized leaders uniquely suited to prevent opioid abuse and misuse by employing opioid-minimizing techniques while ensuring patients have access to appropriate pain treatments;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim January 26 – February 1, 2020, as Physician Anesthesiologists Week in Michigan to recognize physician anesthesiologists, who have developed the techniques and protocols that have greatly improved the safety of anesthesiology and the well-being of surgical patients.