In this first PROCESS interview of 2024, I sit down with the extraordinary Mark Leonard, whose career leap from the UK's Anesthesia Associate to an American Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant is nothing short of inspirational. Mark candidly shares his insider knowledge on his significant roles within the CAA profession, from his hands-on clinical work to spearheading simulation program development and teaching regional anesthesia to CAAs. This episode isn't just Mark's personal story; it's a treasure trove of insights for anyone in the anesthesia field or anyone contemplating a big life change. 

Mark encourages all CAAs to find their unique path to support and strengthen our rapidly growing community, remembering that sharing knowledge is just as important as acquiring it. This conversation is a testament to that belief. So, tune in for an enlightening exploration of the paths that shape our professional lives and the communal bonds that fortify them.

What did they say? KEY:

• ODP (Operating Department Practitioner- UK)
• AA (Anesthesia Associates- current name for CAAs in UK)
• CAA (Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant- USA)
• ANAESTHETISTS (UK- Anesthesia Doctor)
• ACT (Anesthesia Care Team)
• LAST (Local Anesthetic Systemic Toxicity)
• TAP (Transversus Abdominis Plane block)
• GA (General Anesthesia)
• NCCAA (National Commission for Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants)
• NOVA/NSU (Nova Southeastern University- AA Program)

Resources Mentioned:

• @anesthesiaanonymous TikTok
• CAALifestyle YouTube
• AnesthesiaSal YouTube
• AnesthesiaOneSource.com
• Ultrasoundexperts.org
• 8 blocks every CAA should know- interscalene, supraclavicular, femoral, adductor canal, popliteal sciatic, TAP, rectus, erector spine plane (ESP)

Connect with Mark @ [email protected]
Mark Leonard FB
@ezmuzic on IG

You can now text me! Questions/Suggestions

Support Aaliyah Walker, an OB patient whose care deeply impacted our 2025 AAAA President, Nicole Moore. Learn how you can aid Aaliyah’s recovery and amplify her impact.

• From Crisis to Courage: Aaliyah's Story of Survival
• TikTok @authentically.aaliyah

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Let's Chat! Contact me:
[email protected]
IG @awakenedanesthetist