Leadership Changes Within VA National Anesthesia Service

On July 6, ASA-member John Sum-Ping, MD, Director of the National Anesthesia Service within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs since 2012, announced his decision to step down effective August 2.
 
Prior to serving as National Director, Dr. Sum-Ping served as Acting National Director from 2010-2012. He has been a leader in assuring our nations Veterans access to safe, high quality anesthesia care and will continue this work as a consultant to the new National Director. ASA thanks Dr. Sum-Ping for his service and is grateful for his commitment to Veterans and safe anesthesia care. 

The Veterans Health Administration Anesthesia Service was established in 1994 to provide guidance and consultation on policies and procedures for anesthesiology services throughout VA medical centers. An important voice in the VA and collaborator with VHA Medical-Surgical Services, the VA National Anesthesia Service ensures patient safety on all matters pertinent to the practice of anesthesia. 

Christina Matadial, MD, also an ASA member and Chief of Anesthesia at the Miami VHA System, has been appointed to serve as the new National Director.  Dr. Matadial served as Director of the National Anesthesia Field Committee prior to her appointment. ASA congratulates Dr. Matadial on her new leadership role.