Professional Growth
The ESAIC's mission is to promote and provide exceptional training and educational opportunities. The ESAIC ensures the delivery of robust and standardised examination and certification systems to support the professional development of anaesthesiologists, ensuring the production of outstanding future doctors in the fields of anaesthesiology and intensive care.
The ESAIC provides numerous educational opportunities for professionals in anaesthesia, intensive care, pain management, and emergency medicine. Each year, a diverse range of educational activities and formats are offered to help professionals advance their knowledge and skills. Many of these activities are accredited by the European Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (EACCME) and provide European CME credits for learners.
In 2023, the ESAIC made significant strides in Education and Training, continuing to expand and enhance these educational opportunities across the field.
Since 2023, Learning Tracks have been introduced as educational programmes aimed at expanding knowledge and understanding of specific topics in depth. The first track introduced was the Focus Track on Brain Health.
This comprehensive approach ensures that ESAIC remains at the forefront of anaesthesiology and intensive care education, fostering continuous professional development and excellence in clinical practice.
Education & Training
Professional Growth
The ESAIC provides high-quality training and education
Webinar
Academy
E-Modules
Podcasts
Guidelines O'Clock
Try Me Quizz
TTT
CEEA
Trainee Committee
ATAIC
Simulation Committee
Business Model revised to become innovative and self-sustainable
Exchange Programme
- 78 applications
- 44 centres
- Revised programme to include updated European Training Requirement of EBA
- 49 active centres
- 5 Facebook Live Episodes
- Contribution to the Focus on Brain Health
- Re-accreditation of Department in 4 hospitals
- Increased pool of ATAIC Visitors (+4)
- Developing National Curriculum for simulation training for Residents in Romania with SRATI
- Working agreement with SESAM
The ESAIC Academy is an online e-learning platform. Users can access webinar replays, e-learning modules, and courses anytime and anywhere, track their progress, and earn CME credits through accreditation.
The ESAIC Academy can be accessed via the web or mobile app.
The e-learning committee's efforts remained robust, integrating education into clinical practice through the ESAIC Academy, featuring webinars, e-learning modules, quizzes, and videocasts.
In 2023, the ESAIC Academy received 57,830 accesses. The webinars had over 12k views, and e-modules have attracted 16,000 attendees since 2019.
A major highlight was the introduction of the first Learning Track on Brain Health, culminating in dedicated webinars and sessions at EA24 in Munich.
ESAIC Academy
Guidelines O'Clock
In July 2023, Guidelines O'Clock, a specific 30-minute e-module format, was launched and accredited by the UEMS with 0.5 CME credits. Each e-module focused on the latest ESAIC guidelines, featuring contributions from experts and authors who outlined its pillars and key learning points.
In 2023, Guidelines O'Clock e-modules attracted more than
300 viewers
Try Me Quiz
Additionally, the TryMe Quiz, an online self-assessment tool on specific topics, was introduced in 2023. Designed as a preparatory tool, the quiz helps individuals check their knowledge and engage with Q&A prepared by experts. It redirects learners to the ESAIC Academy, allowing them to decide their own pace of study and learn without space and time constraints.
In 2023, five TryMe Quizzes gathered over
5,300 viewers
e-Learning Modules
Webinars
In 2023, 14 live-streamed webinars were held with 8,842 viewers. Thanks to strong collaboration with the Scientific Committee and the Trainees Committee, the annual webinar programme included four Theme of the Month on Brain Health webinars. These were part of the blended educational offer of the Focus Track on Brain, which started in 2023 and will culminate at EA24 in Munich.
The ESAIC Education and Training Committee launched the Focus Track on Brain Health, an educational programme aimed at expanding knowledge and understanding of brain health. Led by Prof. Vincent Bohhomme, an expert in Neuroanaesthesiology, this programme was developed by a team of dedicated professionals from the ESAIC community. The curriculum covered brain injuries and prevention in depth, with a faculty of accomplished individuals from diverse backgrounds, ensuring a stimulating learning environment and thought-provoking discussions.
Participants began their brain health journey with the TryMeQuiz, followed by engaging webinars, a virtual Focus Meeting, and captivating podcasts, and will culminate with an interactive workshop at Euroanaesthesia 2024.
The programme actively engaged participants, providing them with the knowledge and tools to deepen their understanding of brain health.
Focus Track on Brain Health
September 2023
TryMeQuiz
A quiz to test knowledge by replying to 5 questions on a specific topic and get instant feedback with explanations and visuals.
Released in August 2023
1.307 entries
October 2023
Theme of the month:
The brain health
1 Month, 4 Webinars
A new ESAIC Theme of the month webinar series focusing on Brain Health with the support of the Scientific, eLearning, and Trainees Committees.
Live 3-10-17-24 October
1,345 Participants
April 2023
Podcast
ESAIC Talks: Sustainability - Beyond Low Flow Anaesthesia
with Prof. Jan Hendrickx, and speaker Dr Patricio González-Pizarro (Chair of ESAIC Sustainability committee)
Released on 13 April 2023
2.830 downloads
November 2023
Guidelines O'Clock
A new, on-demand eLearning module to learn about newly released Guidelines offered to the ESAIC Members.
88 Participants
October 2023
Focus track on brain health
1 Month, 4 Webinars
A new ESAIC Theme of the month webinar series focusing on Brain Health with the support of the Scientific, eLearning, and Trainees Committees.
Live 3-10-17-24 October
1,345 Participants
September 2023
TryMe Quiz
A quiz to test knowledge by replying to 5 questions on a specific topic and get instant feedback with explanations and visuals.
Released in August 2023
1,307 entries
April 2023
Podcast
ESAIC Talks: Sustainability - Beyond Low Flow Anaesthesia
with Prof. Jan Hendrickx, and speaker Dr Patricio González-Pizarro (Chair of ESAIC Sustainability committee)
Released on 13 April 2023
2,830 downloads
November 2023
Guidelines O'Clock
A new, on-demand eLearning module to learn about newly released Guidelines offered to the ESAIC Members.
88 Participants
Podcasts
The "Education Tuesday" initiative, launched in 2022, continued to be a fixture in the ESAIC community, organising or releasing educational events weekly. This initiative included highly successful podcasts, with the first ten episodes attracting over 40,000 listeners. In 2023, the number of podcasts released each week expanded, aiming to enrich educational resources and outreach. The podcasts achieved over 30k downloads during 2023, further engaging the audience.
In 2023, podcast production evolved into video podcast recordings that can be listened to and watched anytime, anywhere, making them a flexible medium for consuming educational content.
14 video podcasts were released in 2023, garnering a total of 28,637 downloads. Unlike other forms of media, Video podcasts allow for long-form discussions that can explore complex topics and provide detailed insights touching all the different aspects of anaesthesiology and intensive care, aimed at different targets.
January
Guidelines on Neuromuscular Blockade
February
An Update on the EBA European Training Guidelines
March
A matter of justice? Ethical resource allocation in Anaesthesia and ICU
March
EDAIC Part 1 Preparation
April
Sustainability: beyond Low Flow Anaesthesia
May
Anaphylaxis and anesthesia
June
Management of chronic diseases in the perioperative period
June
Industry Corner: Intraoperative hypotension when using Hypotension Prediction Index software during major non-cardiac surgery
July
EA2023 Best Abstract Prize Competition-Interview with the winners
August
Challenging Dogmas: Awake extubation is safer and easier in children
September
Patient Safety and Simulation (changing landscapes, innovation, opportunities)
September
*Special Episode* Celebrating World Patient Safety Day 2023: Healthcare is, above all else, a human interaction
November
Extremes of anaesthesia for non-bariatric surgery in the patients with obesity
December
Wellbeing in anaesthesia and intensive care
December
Key learning points to take away from the Focus Meeting on Brain Health
Date
Speaker
Topic
January
Nandor Marczin (UK)
Vasoplegia & Inflammation - unavoidableduringsurgery
February
Ron Flaishon (IL)
How to ensure that Ambulatory Anaesthesia goes as planned
March
Hugo Vereecke (BE)
General purpose TCI models to help you make your job easier!
April
Markus Klimek (NL)
Dos and don'ts for successfully passing the EDAIC-part II
May
Sandra Emily Stoll (DE)
Team leading and decision making
Facebook Live, an initiative led by the ESAIC Trainee Committee—a vibrant group of young doctors—is dedicated to creating learning opportunities for anaesthesiologists at the beginning of their careers. Our goal is to inspire and educate ESAIC Trainees throughout Europe and beyond.
In 2023, the Trainees Committee contributed significantly to online education by organising five Facebook Live sessions on daily clinical practice cases and the EDAIC examination.
These efforts enriched the trainees' online educational offerings and enhanced the overall learning experience.
Note: The recordings are availableon the Facebook Page “ESAIC Trainee Network”.
Facebook Live
Train the Trainer Course (TTT)
In 2023, the ESAIC significantly advanced its educational offerings with the Train the Trainer Course, aimed at enhancing teaching skills among anaesthesiology specialists. Recognising that high-quality teaching is crucial for patient safety, the ESAIC developed this course to help anaesthesiologists effectively educate not only medical staff but also operating department practitioners and nursing staff.
Originally named Teach the Teacher (TTT), the course was renamed Train the Trainer in 2023. It consists of two week-long modules separated by six months, providing ample practice time for newly learned skills. The course equips participants to conduct effective teaching sessions, offer feedback, build educational programmes, and assess learners.
In 2023, the course was refreshed with new faculty, updated material, and added content such as simulations, gamification, flipped classrooms, and online teaching. The first part of the refreshed course was held in Crete, Greece, in October 2022, and the second part in Porto in 2023. An online module was also introduced as part of the refresh.
This initiative, led by the Train the Trainer Committee (former Teach The Teacher Committee), ensures that participants are well-equipped to become educators and leaders in anaesthesiology education.
Simulation-based Education
In 2023, the ESAIC placed a strong emphasis on simulation-based education to improve patient safety and clinical outcomes. The Simulation Committee worked to integrate high-fidelity simulation training into national anaesthesiology curricula across Europe. Key collaborative efforts with SESAM and the Romanian Society of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care (SRATI) were pivotal in developing a national curriculum for simulation training in Romania.
Additional initiatives
The ESAIC organised EuroanaesthesiaSimLab, Simulation Masterclass, and EA Serious Games to further enhance simulation-based learning. These efforts ensure that ESAIC remains a leader in anaesthesiology education, promoting continuous professional development and excellence in clinical practice.
Courses
Key developments
Working agreement with SESAM
In 2023, the Simulation Committee developed a working agreement with SESAM to collaborate on the National Simulation Development Programme, initiated in Romania with SRATI.
Support for NASC and EBA
The committee will also support NASC member countries in developing their simulation education programmes and work with the EBA to integrate simulation into the anaesthesia curriculum.
Teach the Teacher Course
The committee, alongside SRATI and SESAM, created a Teach the Teacher course to develop high-fidelity simulation faculty professionals. The aim is for these professionals to run subsequent courses and enhance their teaching skills.
National Curriculum for residents
SRATI requested support to develop a national curriculum for simulation training for residents. ESAIC and SESAM will collaborate on this curriculum, which can be shared with other countries.
The Courses Programme was updated to align with the latest European Training Requirements, continuing to offer face-to-face courses with 49 active centres. Collaboration with SESAM and SRATI enhanced high-fidelity simulation training and national curricula. The Simulation Committee also developed a national curriculum for simulation training for residents in Romania.
BCSAC
In 2023, the Basic and Clinical Sciences Anaesthetic Course (BCSAC) totalled 312 registrations. This high intake highlights the course's growing relevance and appeal to healthcare professionals seeking to deepen their knowledge in anaesthesiology and to prepare for the European Diploma in Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care.
VIVAC
In 2023, the VIVAC (Viva Course) attracted 60 registrations, with an increase to 100 expected in 2024. Designed to prepare candidates for the European Diploma in Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Part II examination, VIVAC offers lectures and a mock exam workshop led by experienced examiners. Participants receive feedback on their performance and observe various examination styles, enhancing their readiness for the official exam.
The VIVAC and BCSAC programmes are part of ESAIC's commitment to preparing the candidates for the high EDAIC standard of knowledge.
Date
Place
Theme
24-26 October 2023
Athens, Greece
Masterclass in Statistics and Research Methodology
9-11 October 2023
Madrid, Spain
Patient Safety and Quality Masterclass
11-12 May 2023
Grenoble, France
Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Crisis Simulation Masterclass - Helsinki Declaration through High Fidelity Simulation
Masterclasses
The ESAIC's fifth edition of the Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Crisis Simulation Masterclass, held in Grenoble in May 2023, featured high-fidelity simulation scenarios based on the Helsinki Declaration on Patient Safety. The two-day course included five simulation cases covering Intensive Care, Theatre, and Emergency Care, using both high-fidelity mannequins and live actors to create realistic clinical scenarios. This immersive training aimed to improve crisis management skills, non-technical skills, and human factors in a safe learning environment.
The ESAIC Masterclasses offer expert-led sessions for anaesthesiologists to improve their scientific skills and refresh knowledge on topics such as research, scientific writing, statistics, and clinical study design and analysis. In 2023, ESAIC organised a series of masterclasses aimed at enhancing these skills and updating knowledge in specific areas. These sessions were conducted by renowned experts in their respective fields.
The ESAIC promotes the professional role of anaesthesiologists through high-quality training and education, supported by a robust examination and certification system. A key tool for this is the European Diploma in Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (EDAIC) examination, endorsed by the European Board of Anaesthesiology (EBA, UEMS) and the Council for European Specialist Medical Assessments (CESMA, UEMS). The EDAIC is a comprehensive, two-part assessment (written and oral) that tests the knowledge of anaesthesiologists at the end of their specialist training, covering a wide range of topics in multiple languages. Successfully completing the EDAIC demonstrates a commitment to excellence and readiness to advance patient care in Europe and beyond.
Examination
Professional Growth
In 2023, the EDAIC continued to show impressive performance and evolution:
Record-breaking registration numbers for the EDAIC Part I, Part II and OLA highlight the growing commitment to professional competence.
By expanding the scope and reach of the exams, ESAIC ensures accessibility and maintains high standards across different regions worldwide.
The success of the EDAIC in 2023 underscores ESAIC's dedication to fostering excellence in anaesthesiology and intensive care, ensuring that anaesthesiologists have the required knowledge to deliver high-quality patient care.
In 2023, the ESAIC continued to promote the professional role of anaesthesiologists through high-quality training and education, supported by a robust examination and certification system.
The EDAIC Part I examination took place on 16 September 2023, conducted solely in paper format across all Part I centres. Of 3,687 registered candidates, 3,197 sat the exam in 86 centres across 45 countries. This success was due to the dedication and flexibility of the Part I Hosts and their teams, who ensured adherence to EDAIC regulations and maintained high standards worldwide, providing optimal conditions for candidates and invigilators.
New centres hosting the EDAIC Part I Exam were opened in 2023, including Tartu (Estonia), Amman (Jordan), and Nicosia (Cyprus).
EDAIC Part I Exam
3,687 registered candidates
3,197 sat the Part I across 86 centres & 45 countries
In 2021, 2,962 candidates registered for EDAIC Part I. This number increased by 12.9% in 2022, reaching 3,345. In 2023, registrations further rose to 3,687, marking an increase of 10.2% from the previous year. This trend reflects a rising interest and engagement in the EDAIC Part I exam due to factors such as an increasing recognition of EDAIC worldwide, leading to official adoptions of the examination at the national level, enhanced awareness, and increased accessibility through introducing new examination centres.
Exam registrations for the EDAIC Part I have seen notable growth over the past three years.
EDAIC Part I Candidates per Continent
EDAIC Part I candidates top 10 countries
EDAIC – Focus on Quality
ESAIC Headquarters’ Quality System is accredited
Digital Diploma (2023): Faster, safer, convenient
Transitioning to a new provider for digital MCQs in 2024
In 2021, 1,230 candidates registered. In 2022, the ESAIC organised eighteen online and face-to-face sessions, reaching the highest registration number and participation ever at 1,338, an 8.8% increase over 2021. In 2023, registrations further rose to 1,426, marking a 6.6% increase from the previous year. This trend reflects a growing commitment among anaesthesiologists to achieve certification, driven by the increasing recognition of the EDAIC's importance in professional development.
Over the past three years, EDAIC Part II exam- a mix of online and face-to-face exams - registrations have shown significant growth.
EDAIC Part II Exam
EDAIC Part II Candidates per Continent
EDAIC Part II candidates top 10 countries
In 2023, 2,128 candidates registered for the (H)OLA, with a dedicated session on 14 April for those from countries where OLA is part of the national exam. Others could take the Home On-Line Assessment (HOLA) from 19 April to 3 May. Overall, 1,858 candidates completed the (H)OLA in 2023. This compares to 2022, where the online (H)OLA totalled 1,878 registered candidates, of which 1650 took the exam.
This shows a significant increase in registrations and completed assessments for 2023, highlighting the popularity of the HOLA format.
(H)OLA
Together
improved health outcomes, patient safety,
environmental sustainability
for
and greater
across anaesthesiology and intensive care.