Anesthesiologists earn rare care qualification

UNMC’s Tara Brakke, M.D., and Sasha Shillcutt, M.D., recently became part of a select group of U.S. anesthesiologists who have passed the ASCeXAM.

They join about 15 other anesthesiologists from throughout the country who have passed the exam — which is primarily for cardiologists.

UNMC’s Sasha Shillcutt, M.D., left, and Tara Brakke, M.D., are among a handful of U.S. anesthesiologists who have passed the ASCeXAM.

By passing the exam, Drs. Brakke and Shillcutt are specially qualified to use transthoracic echocardiogram technology to help monitor their patients while under anesthetic.

This helps ensure patient safety and well-being beyond what is called for under the typical standard of care.

Drs. Brakke and Shillcutt also are among six UNMC anesthesiologists who have passed the PTEeXAM, which specially qualifies them to use transesophageal echocardiogram technology. This also helps improve patient care beyond the typical anesthesiology standard of care.

“Congratulations to Drs. Brakke and Shillcutt, who by passing these exams, continue our department’s tradition of providing outstanding care that goes beyond the standard of care,” said Sheila Ellis, M.D., interim chairwoman of the department of anesthesiology. “Their dedication to increase their capabilities, as well as those who have passed the PTEeXAM, illustrates the dedication our department has to provide the best care possible.”