When we stand together, decision-makers listen

Kia ora koutou,

As we step into 2025, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the incredible work you all do every day. Anaesthesia is often described as the ‘invisible profession’, but we know the reality—our work is at the heart of patient safety, surgical care, and critical interventions.

Last year brought its fair share of challenges, from workforce pressures to system changes, but through it all, we’ve shown resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to our patients. And as we look ahead, I see a year filled with opportunities for growth, collaboration, and progress.

More than ever, we must stand together. The New Zealand Society of Anaesthetists (NZSA) is only as strong as its members, and our ability to advocate, support, and drive positive change depends on having a large, engaged community that truly reflects the workforce. By staying connected and involved, we amplify our collective voice and ensure that anaesthetists remain a powerful force in shaping the future of healthcare in Aotearoa.

So, let’s take a deep breath (with 100% oxygen, of course!) and look forward to what’s in store for us in 2025.

We all know the pressures on our workforce aren’t going away overnight. Staff shortages, increasing caseloads, and burnout remain real concerns. But instead of dwelling on the problem, let’s talk about solutions.

This year, the NZSA is doubling down on its commitment to supporting anaesthetists at all career stages. Whether it’s through advocacy for better working conditions, wellbeing initiatives, or leadership development, we are here for you. Let’s also not forget the power of looking out for each other—sometimes, a simple conversation with a colleague can make all the difference.

By sticking together as a profession, we strengthen our ability to push for positive change. The bigger our membership, the stronger our voice when advocating for safe working conditions, fair resourcing, and the wellbeing of anaesthetists.

The health system continues to evolve, and this is very clearly a period of immense uncertainty. However, one thing remains clear—anaesthetists must have a seat at the table when decisions are made that impact patient care and our profession.

The NZSA is actively engaging with Te Whatu Ora, policymakers, and other key stakeholders to ensure that our perspectives are heard. We will keep advocating for a system that not only supports safe, high-quality, specialist led anaesthesia care but also values and protects the people delivering it.

The stronger our membership, the more influence we have. When we stand together, decision-makers listen.

One of the core aspects of our work is ensuring that patients understand their anaesthetic care. We know that time pressures and complex medical discussions can sometimes make this challenging, which is why we’re excited to announce the launch of an expanded suite of digital patient education tools.

These new resources will make it easier to communicate key anaesthesia concepts, risks, and procedures with patients in a clear, accessible way—helping to improve informed consent and patient confidence. By integrating these tools into our practice, we can streamline discussions while ensuring patients are better equipped to engage in their own care.

This initiative is just one example of what we can achieve when we work together as a strong, united profession.

One of the greatest strengths of our profession is the camaraderie we share. Anaesthesia may often be behind the scenes, but we are never alone. We work best when we support each other, learn from each other, and celebrate our wins—big and small.

This year, let’s prioritise staying connected. Whether it’s through NZSA events, mentorship opportunities, or simply grabbing a coffee with a colleague, let’s build a stronger, more supportive anaesthesia community.

And if you or new members of your department are not already an NZSA member, now is the time to join. The more members we have, the more we can achieve—whether it’s securing better working conditions, developing new professional resources, or ensuring our voices are heard at the highest levels. NZSA exists for anaesthetists, but we also exist because of anaesthetists.

Being part of a strong, engaged professional body doesn’t just benefit individuals—it strengthens our entire profession and safeguards the future of anaesthesia in Aotearoa.

As we embark on another year, I encourage each of you to think about how we can shape the future of anaesthesia in Aotearoa. Whether it’s getting involved in advocacy, mentoring a junior colleague, contributing to sustainability efforts, or simply checking in with your team, every action counts.

Together, we are stronger. Together, we can ensure that anaesthesia continues to thrive, that our voices are heard, and that our patients receive the safest and best care possible.

So here’s to 2025—a year of resilience, innovation, and looking out for each other. Let’s make it a great one.