Q: What is the AVAA and when was it founded?

A: The AVAA is an independent organization of VA anesthesiologists founded in 1991 by anesthesiologists interested in ensuring the highest level of anesthesia care possible through advocacy on the national level. Past presidents have included Maciver Edwards (1991-93), Frank Scamman (1993-95), Richard Davis (1995-97), William Schmeling (1998-2000), Albert Perrino (2000-02), and currently Martin London (2004 -04).

Q: How does it differ from the National Anesthesia Service?

A: We are an independent organization of physicians and as such have no formal affiliation with the DVA. The National Anesthesia Service is a formal part of the DVA administration currently headed by Micheal Bishop, M.D. Our independent status allows us to serve as an advocacy group for all of our members.

Q: Who are the officers?

A: Martin London, M.D., San Francisco, is the current president. Dr. Grace Chien, Portland, is the secretary/treasurer. Dr. Albert Perrino, West Haven, is the immediate past president.

Q: Who is eligible for membership, how do they join and what are the dues?

A: All anesthesiologists who work in the DVA are eligible to join. The current dues are $35 per year.

Q: What are the benefits of membership?

A: Membership enables inclusion on the AVAA mailing list via Outlook, the opportunity to participate in our annual dinner meeting (additional fee for dinner), and most importantly, facilitating a strong voice in the VA regarding issues of importance to the practice of anesthesiology. We are particularly excited about our new web site (see below)!

Q: When does it meet?

A: In past years we have met for an annual dinner meeting at the time of the American Society of Anesthesiologists. We intend to continue this tradition. However, if our membership grows substantially and are interested, an additional stand-alone educational meeting in a similar manner as the Association of VA Surgeons is a possibility.

Q: How does it communicate with its members?

A: We have traditionally used the VA's Outlook mailing list for communication. However, with the opening of this web site we are hoping to use it as the "nexus" for communication.

Q: How can I get involved in the AVAA?

A: The AVAA is a small organization eager to grow in both size and ideas! We welcome your ideas and participation at all levels. There is enormous potential for us to educate ourselves and other physicians and health care personnel via our web site and other venues. Let your voice be heard!

Q: What are the long-range plans for this web site?

A: We are very excited about this new web site. We are committed to expanding it into a full-featured, interactive, site showcasing educational, administrative and research efforts of our members. Send us your ideas and get involved!

Q: What are the clinical forums and how do I use them?

A: The clinical forums have 2 purposes. The first is to facilitate communication between members using a "message board" format. The second is to provide a repository for educational content related to a particular clinical area. Each section will be moderated by several members who will work with the web master to ensure high quality content and moderation of clinical discussions. We have posted a "basic" tutorial on how to post messages on the forums, others will be forthcoming about more advanced uses. You must be a member and have a valid password to view the postings for security reasons. Educational content will be open to the general public.

Q: Who do I contact with questions?

A: See "Contact Information" on the menu.