The Academy of Regional Anaesthesia (AORA) has officially launched an innovative 12-month hybrid fellowship in regional anaesthesia, aiming to bridge critical training gaps and raise the standard of care across the country. This pioneering program blends virtual learning with hands-on training at Aesculap Academy’s Guiding Centers.
The fellowship was inaugurated at Hotel Holiday Inn, Mumbai, with both in-person and online attendees. Esteemed speakers included Dr. J. Balavenkatasubramanian, Dr. TVS Gopal, Dr. Vrushali Ponde, Dr. Sandeep Diwan, and Dr. Satish Kulkarni from AORA, along with key representatives from B. Braun India, including Mr. Aditya Banerjee, Mr. Navin Hans, Mr. Sandiip Pawaar, and Dr. Vivek Sharma.
Bridging Training Gaps with a Robust Curriculum
With regional anaesthesia currently used in nearly 50% of surgeries, the demand for highly skilled practitioners is growing rapidly. As per the Press Release, AORA’s fellowship addresses this demand through a comprehensive seven-module curriculum. Participants will engage in anatomy theory, simulation training, cadaveric and ultrasound workshops, observerships, and clinical practice.
Upon completion, fellows will receive a co-branded certification from AORA and Aesculap Academy, along with accreditation from KU Leuven University, a globally recognized institution in medical education.
Aiming to Train Over 50 Anaesthesiologists in Three Years
AORA has set an ambitious target to train more than 50 anaesthesiologists within the next three years. This initiative is designed not only to upskill practitioners but also to transform patient care across India by embedding consistent protocols and refined techniques into daily medical practice.
A Multidisciplinary Impact on Patient Outcomes
The fellowship also promises wider benefits for the surgical ecosystem. By promoting better collaboration between surgeons and anaesthesiologists, the program aims to enhance pain management and surgical outcomes, ultimately benefiting patients across the board.
Voices from the Launch
Dr. J. Balavenkatasubramanian, Advisory Board Member of AORA, commented,
“This fellowship is more than a learning opportunity—it’s a catalyst for elevating clinical excellence. By nurturing a strong, skilled workforce, we’re directly advancing patients’ quality of care through refined techniques and standardized protocols.”
Dr. Vrushali Ponde, Chairperson & Trustee of AORA, added,
“For far too long, working anaesthesiologists lacked access to structured, high-calibre training in regional anaesthesia. This program fills that void by offering real-world, advanced skills that can significantly improve care delivery.”
Strategic Partnerships Driving the Program
Highlighting the collaboration, Mr. Aditya Banerjee, Managing Director of B. Braun Medical India Pvt. Ltd., stated,
“Supporting AORA reflects Aesculap Academy’s shared commitment to advancing medical education. Together, we are setting new benchmarks in anaesthesia training.”
Mr. Navin Hans, Vice President – Sales & Marketing, B. Braun India, emphasized the program’s value,
“This fellowship provides a harmonised, high-quality curriculum, giving every anaesthesiologist access to expert mentorship and cutting-edge protocols—regardless of where they work.”
About the Academy of Regional Anaesthesia (AORA)
AORA is a leading professional body in India focused on enhancing patient care through education, practice, and research in regional anaesthesia. The organisation conducts workshops, conferences, and innovative training to uplift the standards of anaesthesiology.
About Aesculap Academy
Part of the B. Braun Group, Aesculap Academy is a global institution known for its high-quality medical education. Through practical training, interdisciplinary workshops, and expert-led sessions, it empowers healthcare professionals worldwide.