APSAR-BSAR Professional Association of Belgian Specialists in Anesthesia and Resuscitation Narrative review

Organized professional defense per medical specialty is a recent historical phenomenon, particularly for anesthesiologists, as modern anesthesia only emerged in the mid-19th century. In Belgium, such a corporatist association for anesthesiologists, which stands up to discuss and negotiate matters of training, qualification and working conditions was first founded in 1947 as the APSA (Association Professionnelle des Spécialistes en Anesthésie). This association played a crucial role in the nationwide introduction of structured anesthesia facilities shortly after World War II, before which no specific training, dedicated physicians or professional working conditions existed.