About ASA

We are ASA

At the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), we take pride in our dedication to raise and maintain the standards of the medical practice of anesthesiology and to improve patient care. Since 1905, our achievements have played an important role in American medicine and we’ve acted as an advocate for all patients who require anesthesia or relief from pain. We provide outstanding education, research and scientific knowledge to physician anesthesiologists and care-team members. 

About ASA's Lighthouse Logo

The lighthouse in ASA’s logo pays homage to the Society’s seal, which was adopted in 1932.

Each of the artistic elements within the seal carry specific meaning. The patient is represented as a ship sailing a troubled sea with clouds of doubt and waves of terror, guided by the skillful pilot―the physician anesthesiologist. The stars represent constant and eternal vigilance. The lighthouse acts as a beacon in the night, and symbolizes the physician’s dependable knowledge about the science of anesthesiology. The physician guides the patient through the art of sleep―represented by the moon―to a safe and happy outcome. The perfect circle denotes unity of a closed group―the Society.

The lighthouse symbol represents ASA’s commitment to physician anesthesiologists around the world to organize and form a union of sharp minds, kind hearts and steady hands to protect patients during their most vulnerable moments.