The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine (CoM) has made the definitive choice to appoint Stuart Bertsch, MD, as chair of the Department of Anesthesiology, set to take effect on Aug. 11. The announcement comes after Bertsch has acted as interim chair since April last year, and his tenure as vice chair showcases a consistency in leadership that the university hopes will continue to thrive under his official role. The department, with a rich history since its establishment in 1970, is looking to continue its tradition of excellence with Bertsch at the helm.
"Dr. Bertsch is an exceptional leader who has already made profound contributions to our Department of Anesthesiology and the College of Medicine,” said Gregory C. Postel, MD, dean of the College of Medicine, as stated in a release by the University of Cincinnati. Bertsch's military experience, among other qualifications, appears to not only serve him well but also provide a unique perspective to the leadership role he assumes.
Since joining in 2013, Bertsch has been instrumental within the UC Medical Center, contributing significant efforts to coordinate services across multiple operative sites. His educational background includes a medical degree from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine and a recent Master of Business Administration from UC's Lindner College of Business, which he earned in 2023. Bertsch also served in the United States Air Force, applying his medical and educational expertise to the Center for Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills (C-STARS), as well as undertaking mission-critical roles in Afghanistan.
Under Bertsch's guidance, the Department of Anesthesiology has seen substantial growth with a 30% increase in clinical workload and the expansion of its facilities and services. "I am incredibly honored and excited to lead the Department of Anesthesiology as its permanent chair," Bertsch told University of Cincinnati News. He plans to actively continue advancing the department with a focus on integrating new technological innovations and fostering a collaborative environment throughout the College of Medicine and UC Health.
With a track record that includes the development of new operating rooms and clinical pathways, as well as a focus on patient safety and perioperative outcomes, Bertsch's direction is poised to cement the Department of Anesthesiology's status within the fields of academic research and clinical care. The department prides itself on its comprehensive services and its ACGME-approved residency and fellowships, particularly in areas like pediatric anesthesia in partnership with the highly-ranked Cincinnati Children's Hospital.
Bertsch, in his new capacity as chair, is expected to steer the department not only in maintaining its historical strengths but also towards new pathways for innovation, education, and professional development, maximizing the potential of one of the nation's robust anesthesiology programs.
