Greg Balfanz

Pioneering innovative approaches to anesthesiology, Greg Balfanz serves as an Associate Professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. With a robust foundation in medical education and residency training from the same esteemed institution, Dr. Balfanz has dedicated his career to advancing the field of anesthesiology through both academic and practical avenues. In his multifaceted role, Dr. Balfanz holds several leadership positions within the Department of Anesthesiology. As the Vice Chair of Patient Safety and Quality Improvement, he is instrumental in shaping policies and practices that enhance patient outcomes and safety. His responsibilities extend to serving as the Medical Director of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) and the Post Anesthesia Care Unit/Perioperative Care Services (PACU/PCS), where he oversees clinical operations and ensures the delivery of high-quality anesthetic care. Furthermore, his involvement as a Finance Committee Member reflects his commitment to the strategic and financial planning of the department. Dr. Balfanz's research interests are centered around perioperative blood management, Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS), and operational efficiency in perioperative management. His dedication to these areas is exemplified by a $50,000 grant he received to evaluate and improve peri-operative blood management techniques. This grant underscores his commitment to advancing research that directly impacts patient care and safety. Currently, Dr. Balfanz is collaborating with Bryan Obika, a promising fourth-year medical student with aspirations in anesthesiology. Together, they are exploring strategies to mitigate the harmful effects of common anesthetics, aiming to enhance both patient safety and the environmental impact of anesthetic practices. This collaboration highlights Dr. Balfanz's dedication to mentoring the next generation of anesthesiologists while pushing the boundaries of research and innovation in the field. Through his leadership, research, and collaborative efforts, Dr. Greg Balfanz continues to make significant contributions to the field of anesthesiology, with a steadfast focus on improving patient care and advancing medical knowledge. His work not only influences current practices but also sets a foundation for future advancements in anesthetic care and safety.