The Society for Ambulatory Anesthesia is one of the fastest growing anesthesia organizations, responding to the education and research needs of perioperative physicians practicing ambulatory anesthesia. Founded in 1985, SAMBA enjoys a membership of over 2,000 physicians who actively practice ambulatory anesthesia, other health professionals with an interest in ambulatory anesthesia, and residents in training. The goals of the Society are:

• To advance the field of ambulatory anesthesia.
• To contribute to the growth and influence of ambulatory anesthesia.
• To encourage specialization by perioperative physicians in the field of ambulatory anesthesia.
• To encourage high ethical and professional standards and excellence in patient care by fostering and encouraging research, education, and scientific progress in ambulatory anesthesia.

The Society for Ambulatory Anesthesia strives to keep the medical profession and the public informed about the role of anesthesiologists in the perioperative care of patients undergoing ambulatory surgery. The Society also supports programs and efforts in ambulatory anesthesia by the American Society of Anesthesiologists as well as establishes guidelines for subspecialty training in ambulatory anesthesia.

Education stands in the forefront of the Society's mission. This mission is achieved in several ways through the Contributorship of an Annual Meeting each Spring which attracts nearly 600 registrants from throughout the United States and overseas. Other educational activities of the Society include the SAMBA Breakfast Panel, Workshops, and participation in the Scientific Sessions on Ambulatory Anesthesia presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Society of Anesthesiologists each fall.

Exciting programs relevant to ambulatory anesthesia practice is another way SAMBA is helping its members turn challenges into opportunities during these revolutionary times:

•  Organizational, quality improvement and other management strategies
•  Economic, political, and legal issues
•  Scientific developments
•  Problem oriented discussions, workshops and practical advice
•  Exchange of ideas among anesthesiologists engaged in ambulatory surgery
•  Peer recognition opportunities