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There
are many Chinese American physicians and medical research
scientists in the U.S. There are a few professional general
Chinese medical societies. The earliest Chinese American medical
organization started from San Francisco Chinese Hospital.
In 1962, the Chinese American Medical Society (CAMS) was established
in New York. In 1994, the Federation of Chinese Medical Society
(FCMS) was established in California from 10 founding member
societies such as San Francisco, New York, Toronto, Los Angeles,
Oakland, Montreal, and Vancouver. There is an Association
of Chinese American Physicians (ACAP) which was established
in 1995 in New York City. There was a desire to form a special
organization for the Chinese American anesthesiologists. Due
to several reasons, it was not feasible until CASA was established
recently.
CASA
was established on February 9, 2003. The purpose of CASA is
to create a platform to enhance the exchange among the anesthesiologists
and related research scientists in the U.S. and a world-wide
exchange of the anesthesiology. For example, to promote scientific
exchange between China and the U.S.
Seniors
have a lot of experience to share with the younger generation
and the younger generation, in turn, seek the guidance at
the beginning of their careers. Even the middle-aged with
relatively stable careers also would like to be a part of
the Chinese descent culture. People in the academic and private
practice, although their focuses are different, still have
a lot to contribute as well. In reality, some people change
positions in either direction.
CASA
owes to the contributions of several early generations Chinese
American anesthesiologists and scientists. There are many
outstanding pioneers that CASA is proud of such as Shih-hsun
Ngai, M.D. (1920-1999) who was a distinguished clinician,
scientist, teacher, and mentor. He was professor and former
Chairman of the Department of Anesthesiology of College of
Physicians & Surgeons of Columbia University, and former
Editor of Anesthesiology. CASA is also proud of its honorary
members. Of course, there are many successful but lesser known
individuals.
There
are many American-trained anesthesiologists who have gone
back to China and contributed to the development of the Chinese
society of anesthesiology. Well-known names such as Jone J.
Wu, M.D. (Jue Wu), Deyan Shang, M.D., and Yung Shieh, M.D.
(Rong Xie). They served Chinese anesthesiology with intelligence,
fortitude, and pragmatism. There are many younger anesthesiologists
and related scientists who follow the footsteps of the aforementioned
and promote the Sino-American exchange. CASA would like to
continue this tradition and serve as a bridge over the gap.
CASA
is a young organization with high intentions and great potentials.
The officers, delegates, and members have contributed a lot.
CASA is run by people with spare time. Many difficulties have
been overcome with enthusiasm and timeless efforts. CASA's
website, (www.ChineseASA.org) maintained by professionals,
has been steadily improving. CASA is financially stable.
In the
near future, CASA would like to serve as an information provider
for its members. CASA has a duty to broaden and enhance the
communication both in the U.S. and world-wide.
Haiming
Wang MD
President
of CASA
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