Apr 14, 2026
Who are the unsung heroes of the operating room?
In this episode of Specialty Café, host Mark Garabedian sits down with Dr. Viren Naik, FRCPC, anesthesiologist (first and foremost) and CEO of the Medical Council of Canada, to explore his path into anesthesiology and what makes the specialty such a unique and dynamic field. From electives and procedures to teamwork in the operating room, Dr. Naik offers medical trainees a clear look at what to expect and why anesthesiology continues to evolve. As he puts it, anesthesiologists are often the “unsung heroes of the operating room,” quietly leading patient care, teamwork, and decision-making behind the scenes.
The conversation also explores Dr. Naik’s leadership journey from clinical practice to executive roles in health care and medical education, including his current work at the MCC. He shares thoughtful advice for learners interested in leadership, including the reminder that if a mentor or leader encourages you to consider an opportunity, it is worth paying attention.
Along the way, listeners will also gain practical insight into the MCCQE, LMCC, and physician licensure in Canada, making this episode especially valuable for medical students and residents navigating their training and future careers.
If you're participating in a Royal College accredited residency, don't forget to join as a Resident Affiliate. It’s free, and you can start claiming MOC credits right away. Click here to learn more.