Statement emphasises the necessity of effective anaesthesia services for the SEA Region’s ability to respond to health emergencies and build resilient healthcare systems.
Agenda item 9.7. Advancing health emergency preparedness and response in the WHO South-East Asia Region
Statement delivered by WFSA Committee Member – Dr Ekta Rai
The World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists (WFSA) commends the South-East Asia Region’s evidence-based approach to identifying health services gaps and the strategic investments needed to ensure effective health emergency preparedness and response. This country and regional analysis will show that anaesthesiologists play a crucial frontline role in providing safe, timely, and effective care during emergencies, including natural disasters, pandemics, and surgical crises.
Strengthening anaesthesia services is essential to the region’s ability to respond to health emergencies and build resilient healthcare systems.
We urge member states to prioritize investments in anaesthesia services, including the training and retention of skilled anaesthesiologists. Their expertise in critical care, pain management, and perioperative medicine makes them invaluable to both routine healthcare delivery and emergency response.
Engaging anaesthesiologists in leadership can enhance coordination, improve resource allocation, and strengthen regional health systems’ capacity to deliver safe surgical and critical care. Including anaesthesiologists in decision-making when designing health system responses to emergencies is crucial, as their expertise in managing critical care, airway emergencies, and perioperative care ensures a comprehensive, patient-centered approach.
The WFSA stands ready to support the WHO and member states in building robust anaesthesia services as an integral component of the region’s health emergency preparedness and response.