Sarah Bush Lincoln is pleased to welcome Anesthesiologist Jennifer Huelsbusch, MD, to its medical staff.
Dr. Huelsbusch comes to the community after recently completing a four-year anesthesiology residency program at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago. She received her medical degree in 2008 from the same university. An Effingham native, she is excited to provide anesthesiology services to area residents close to home.
"For many people, going under anesthia is more frightening than the actual surgical procedure. It’s important to develop trust and rapport with people quickly by talking with them and addressing any worries or wishes they may have,” Dr. Huelsbusch said.
In general, an anesthesiologist is a medical doctor who cares for people before, during and immediately following a surgical or medical procedure by administering appropriate anesthesia and monitoring them for reactions and complications, and to ensure comfort and manage pain.
With a strong interest in science and math, Dr. Huelsbusch decided she wanted to pursue medicine at a young age. “I’ve always been around the medical field,” she said adding that her mother has worked for many years in laboratory services and medical marketing. While in high school, Dr. Huelsbusch worked in Emergency Room registration at St. Anthony’s Hospital which confirmed her desire to become a doctor. “I learned a lot just by witnessing the different things that went on,” she said. “It was exciting.”
Enrolling at the University of Illinois in Champaign/Urbana following high school, Dr. Huelsbusch earned undergraduate degrees in both chemistry and biology before entering medical school. Moving to Chicago upon graduation, she found medical school both challenging and rewarding. Thankful to have the support of family and study groups, Dr. Huelsbusch decided to specialize in anesthesiology during her fourth year of medical school.
“I like the fact that anesthesiology integrates many of the specialties. You have to know a little bit about everything, because you have to take care of all types of people – from young and healthy to older with many different medical issues,” she said. However, she explained that anesthesiology is not just putting people to sleep. “It means watching out over people throughout the duration of the surgery. We remain in the room beside them the entire time to ensure their safety.”