We are a forward-thinking medical practice, led by anaesthetists, dedicated to pairing clinical excellence with personalised, patient-centred care

Where warmth meets expertise to deliver care beyond expectation.

At Armadale Anaesthesia, we provide a personalised experience with compassion for all our patients. Whether you are undergoing major surgery or a minor procedure, our team of specialists is dedicated to ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the process. We actively encourage questions and address all your fears with empathy and understanding.
Where we work

We partner with public & private hospitals across Melbourne to provide the best possible care for you.

In the sphere of anaesthetic care, we partner with public and private hospitals from all over Melbourne to deliver exceptional care for all patients in need. Our extensive medical experience means we know how to blend warmth and professionalism within the world of healthcare. 


Together with our trusted hospitals, surgeons, and team, we engage in an open conversation to provide high quality tailored care, prioritising your wellbeing, safety, and comfort.
Meet the Armadale Anaesthesia administration Team

Meet our expert team, here to support doctors, surgeons, and patients

Dr Sarah Palermo

Specialist Anesthetist
My path to founding Armadale Anaesthesia hasn’t been straightforward. For nearly twenty years, I worked full-time in the public hospital system, caring for patients while also training and mentoring new...

Dr Rabb Salarzadeh

Specialist Anesthetist
I founded Armadale Anaesthesia with a clear and deliberate purpose: to elevate the role of anaesthetists, cultivate strong partnerships with surgeons and hospitals, and deliver exceptional care to patients during...

Ms Julia Hruz

Pharmacist
Julia began her career in science education before completing a Master of Pharmacy at the University of Canberra. She went on to gain clinical experience as a pharmacist at Canberra...

Kerryl

Head of Administration
Kerryl brings over 30 years of experience in medical administration, having coordinated both junior and senior staff in the public and private sectors. Her ability to treat everyone with care...
Kerryl

Margaret

Administration
Margaret is an experienced Administrative Assistant with over 30 years in the industry covering a broad range of specialties. Her career has been centred around supporting both patients and medical...
Margaret

Julie

Administration
Julie brings a diverse range of medical administrative experience spanning more than 3 decades across many medical specialty areas (Obstetrics, Gynaecology, Nephrology, Oncology, to name a few). This experience gives...
Julie

Mai

Administration
Mai brings experience in administrative roles across medical and higher education settings. She has been involved in coordinating admissions, managing health fund processes, and maintaining accurate documentation to support both...
Mai

Meagan Pate

Business Development Manager
Meagan possesses a proven track record in initiating and nurturing early stage business development, playing a pivotal role in shaping brands from their inception to successful scaling. Meagan has over...
Meagan
Pharmacist Service

Expert Guidance from Our Pharmacist

Julia Hruz is part of the highly qualified team at Armadale Anaesthesia, dedicated to providing exceptional medical support and information to ensure optimal patient care. She offers expert medication advice, helping patients feel informed, supported, and confident throughout their surgical journey.
For more information about your care before and after surgery, visit our FAQs page or watch Julia’s videos below, which provide clear advice and guidance on perioperative medications.
NURSE PRACTITIONER Service

Enhanced Preparation & Safer Care

At Armadale Anaesthesia, we are always looking for ways to make surgery safer, more comfortable, and less stressful for our patients. One of the ways we do this is through our Nurse Practitioner Service—an innovative program designed to improve preoperative care, help patients feel prepared, and strengthen communication with our anaesthetists.

Before and after your procedure, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with one of our experienced Nurse Practitioners. These conversations allow us to understand your health needs, answer your questions, and ensure you feel confident about what to expect.
Working closely with our anaesthetists, our Nurse Practitioners streamline communication and ensure everything is well coordinated—not only for your surgery, but also for your recovery at home.
Patients often tell us that these extra touchpoints give them peace of mind, knowing they are well-prepared, supported, and cared for every step of the way.

Where warmth meets expertise.

At Armadale Anaesthesia, we provide a personalised experience with compassion for all our patients.
Whether you are undergoing major surgery or a minor procedure, our team of specialists are dedicated to ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the process. We actively encourage questions and address all your fears with empathy and understanding.

Redefining the future of anaesthesia.

Armadale Anaesthesia is a dynamic, contemporary practice that welcomes anaesthetists eager to redefine the future of anaesthesia.
Whether you are an independent practitioner or part of an existing private anaesthetic group, we invite you to collaborate with us so that we can provide the support and infrastructure you need to thrive in your private practice.
With extensive experience in private anaesthetic practice management, we offer tailored assistance with your billing and booking requirements. If you are looking to optimise and elevate your practice, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Finding the right anaesthetist.

We know that the demand for skilled anaesthetists is high, so we make it easy to find one.
Our practice communicates with a wealth of trusted and skilled anaesthetists, all with their own unique skillsets and areas of special interest. We ensure the most suitable anaesthetist is selected for your needs.
Patient Resources
Recent Articles

Accidental Awareness During General Anaesthesia — How Rare Is It?

The idea of “waking up” during surgery is something many patients worry about. This phenomenon, called Accidental Awareness During General Anaesthesia (AAGA), is when a patient becomes conscious while under anaesthetic. Thankfully, the most comprehensive research shows that this is extremely rare.
Accidental awareness during general anaesthesia is very uncommon. Modern monitoring and strict safety protocols make it an even rarer event. If you are worried, your anaesthetist will be happy to discuss the steps taken to keep you safe and comfortable...
Read More

Labour Epidurals — What the Evidence Says About Safety and Outcomes

For many women, an epidural offers the most effective pain relief during labour. But questions often arise: Does it increase the chance of a caesarean? Is it safe for the baby? Research over the last two decades provides clear, reassuring answers.
Epidurals are a safe and effective option for pain relief in labour. They do not increase the chance of a caesarean birth and may even improve maternal safety. Your anaesthetist and midwife will discuss your options and support you in...
Read More

What to Know About Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro Before Surgery

Medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro (semaglutide and tirzepatide) are becoming increasingly common for managing type 2 diabetes and weight loss.
If you are taking one of these medications and need surgery, it’s important to know how they may affect your anaesthetic care.
Read More

Spinal Anaesthesia vs General Anaesthesia in Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip replacement surgery is one of the most common operations worldwide, helping people regain mobility and improve quality of life. One important decision during surgery is whether to have spinal anaesthesia or general anaesthesia.
A major study from the American Joint Replacement Registry (AJRR) gives us new insights into this choice, showing that spinal anaesthesia often leads to better outcomes.
Read More

Is General Anaesthesia Safe for Babies? What the GAS Study Tells Us

For many parents, the thought of their baby needing an operation — and having an anaesthetic — can feel overwhelming. A common worry is whether anaesthesia might affect a child’s brain development in the long term.
The GAS Study (General Anaesthesia compared to Spinal Anaesthesia) is the largest and most reliable research project to answer this question. It gives parents and doctors much-needed reassurance.
Read More

Blood-Thinning Medications and Surgery: What You Need to Know

Based on your medical history, your risk factors, and the type of medications you’re taking, your anaesthetist may advise you to adjust your medicines before surgery. Some medications can affect the way your blood clots, and this needs to be carefully managed to keep you safe during your procedure.
Read More

Debunking Common Myths About Anaesthesia

Anaesthesia is one of the most important parts of your surgical journey — but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Many patients arrive with concerns or misconceptions about what anaesthetists do, or what to expect during their procedure.
Dr Sarah and Dr Rabb have answered some of the most common myths they hear from patients, to help you feel reassured and informed.
Read More

Why Your Medications Matter Before Surgery

Hi, my name is Jules. I’ve been a pharmacist for over 10 years, working in both hospital settings and anaesthesia pre-assessment clinics. One of the most important things I’ve learnt in this time is that what you do with your regular medications before surgery can make a big difference to your safety and recovery.
Your anaesthetist will give you clear instructions about which medications to take, and which to stop, in the lead-up to your procedure. Following these carefully helps ensure the best outcome during your operation and your recovery afterwards.
Read More

What is Pain, and Why Does it Feel Different for Everyone?

When most of us think about pain, we picture it as a simple alarm system: something gets injured, nerves send a signal, and we feel pain. But modern science tells us it’s not that straightforward.
The International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) defines pain as: “An unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with, or resembling that associated with, actual or potential tissue damage.” In other words — pain is not just about your...
Read More

Smoking vs Vaping Before Surgery: What’s Worse – And How to Reduce Risks

When preparing for surgery, one of the most important things you can do to improve your recovery is to stop smoking or vaping. Many patients ask us: “Which is worse before surgery — smoking or vaping?” The truth is, both carry risks, though in slightly different ways.
The good news is, stopping even for a short time makes a real difference. ANZCA and international guidelines recommend: Stop as soon as possible — ideally 4–8 weeks before surgery, but even 24–48 hours can improve oxygen delivery and heart function....
Read More

Breastfeeding After Anaesthesia: What Mums Need to Know

At Armadale Anaesthesia, we provide a personalised experience with compassion for all our patients.
Whether you are undergoing major surgery or a minor procedure, our team of specialists is dedicated to ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the process. We actively encourage questions and address all your fears with empathy and understanding.
Read More