Challenges Faced by Anesthesiologists in Resource-limited Settings: A Freelancer’s Perspective

Safe and effective delivery of anaesthesia in resource-limited settings suffers some peculiar challenges. Anaesthesiologists often work in environments constrained by inadequate infrastructure, shortages of essential drugs, outdated equipment, and insufficient staffing. Systemic issues like inadequate pre-anaesthetic optimisation and poor record keeping, especially in emergency cases, exacerbate these limitations. Cultural factors, economic barriers, and decision-making dependencies further complicate the management of anaesthesia. This article reflects on real-world experiences and presents some key concerns and strategies to be adopted by anaesthesiologists in resource-limited settings to tackle these challenges effectively. It also discusses opportunities for capacity building, technology adaptation, and policy-level interventions to strengthen anaesthesia services in resource-limited settings.