Dr. J. Gary Bridges, DO, FASA

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Get to know Anesthesiologist Dr. J. Gary Bridges, who serves patients in Opelika, Alabama.

Dr. Bridges is a distinguished physician specializing in Anesthesiology and Pain Management, bringing a wealth of expertise to his practice at Anesthesia Associates of East Alabama. 

The doctor’s acclaimed career in medicine began at the College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, where he laid the groundwork for his future medical career. Driven by a passion for healthcare, he pursued his medical degree at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg. Following this, he completed his internship at Baptist Medical Centers in Birmingham, where he gained valuable hands-on experience in the medical field. 

Furthermore, Dr. Bridges honed his skills and expertise during his residency at the UAB Department of Anesthesiology in Birmingham. This intensive training prepared him for a career at the forefront of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, specializing in Orthopaedic, General, Cardiac, Urological, Robotic, and Obstetrical Anesthesiology.

As a testament of his continued education, the doctor is board-certified in anesthesiology by the American Board of Anesthesiology (ABA). As the certifying body for anesthesiologists since 1938, the ABA is committed to partnering with physicians to advance lifelong learning and exceptional patient care. Its mission is to advance the highest standards of the practice of anesthesiology.

Holding membership status, Dr. Bridges is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Society of Anesthesiology, the Alabama State Society of Anesthesiologists, and the Medical Association State of Alabama. 

Alongside his clinical role, he serves as the Chief-of-Staff at East Alabama Health, demonstrating leadership and a commitment to healthcare excellence from 2023 to 2025. Additionally, his role as the Medical Director of the Anesthesiology Assistant Program at Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, starting in 2021, underscores his dedication to shaping the future of healthcare professionals.

Anesthesiology is the medical specialty concerned with the total perioperative care of patients before, during, and after surgery. It encompasses anesthesia, intensive care medicine, critical emergency medicine, and pain medicine. Anesthesiologists have the primary responsibility of monitoring the patient’s vital signs during surgery. In addition to basic measurements such as pulse, blood pressure, and temperature, they measure the patient’s respiration.

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