About the Chair: Stuart Bertsch, MD, MBA

Dr. Stuart Bertsch assumed his role as the William E. Hurford, Endowed Chair of the UC Department of Anesthesiology on August 11, 2025, following his service as Interim Chair. Since joining the department in 2013, Dr. Bertsch has been an integral member of the University of Cincinnati Medical Center faculty and contributes significantly to the Perioperative Leadership Team, shaping operative strategies for UC Health.

In his capacity as a leader, Dr. Bertsch oversees clinical operations at several UC Health facilities, including the operating rooms at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, West Chester Hospital, West Chester Surgical Center and non-operating room anesthetizing locations. The Department of Anesthesiology facilitates comprehensive patient care, coordinating transitions from the preoperative environment with the Center for Perioperative Care through to postoperative management alongside intensive care unit teams. Additionally, pain management services are provided for both acute and chronic conditions in the outpatient setting.

Dr. Bertsch received his medical degree from Virginia Commonwealth School of Medicine in 2009 and completed his residency at the University of Louisville, where he served as Chief Resident in his final year. Demonstrating a commitment to continuous professional development, he earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Cincinnati Lindner College of Business in 2023.

From 2013 to 2017, Dr. Bertsch served with distinction in the United States Air Force. At the Center for Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills (CSTARS) at UC Medical Center, he was instrumental in advancing deployment readiness and education. His military service included assignments as a critical care air transport physician in Afghanistan, where he led several missions and received numerous commendations, departing with the rank of Major.

Dr. Bertsch is dedicated to education and mentoring, actively supporting the growth and professional development of staff to advance clinical excellence. Outside his professional commitments, he values time with his wife, Dr. Carey Bertsch, and their two children, Jackson and Hadley.