Helping Hands: Why More States Need CRNA Supervision
As of late, the exclusion of physician supervision from CRNA practice has been a topic of intense medical debate in professional circles and patient safety. The debate stems from a piercing cry by medical communities to opt out of CRNA supervision – a petition that bore fruit under the Clinton administration when the law allowed CRNAs to “opt-out” of CMS requirement for anesthesiologists regarding physician supervision.
These changes have been consistent with recent shifts in healthcare law that facilitate the practice of nurse anesthetists proficient in administering anesthesia without approval from a physician.
According to Section 2706 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Health Care Act (PPACA), new healthcare regulations have given CRNAs the liberty to operate without constantly seeking consultation from qualified physicians. Under President Obama’s new healthcare plan, the flexibility of an “opt-out” option under an adequate medical license is a move towards accessible healthcare for rural communities, made available in conjunction with economic security.
Active in 15 states thus far, the law is an attempt to save money on employing experienced physicians for a job that can supposedly be done by CRNAs without constant monitoring.
Collaboration and Its Impact in the Medical World
Perhaps the greatest danger imposed by a lack of CRNA supervision is the possibility of administering anesthesia more or less than the required dosage, in a manner unfit for a patient suffering from a particular medical condition.
In the operating room, whether it’s pain management or an anesthesia job, mid level healthcare providers are an essential key to a successful healthcare system. While there is a growing market for CRNAs as they take on monumental responsibility in administering anesthesia to military personnel, in particular, since the Civil War, the level of autonomy is always open to debate.
This is not an argument against the credibility of certified-registered-nurse-anesthetists. It is a conscious, calculated step towards ensuring patient safety by accentuating specialization and division of labor in the world of healthcare. All healthcare regulations should, first and foremost, be consistent with patient safety, and this cannot be made possible by replacing qualified physicians with CRNAs.
Collaboration forms the foundation of every thriving healthcare community. The world of medicine is turbulent and stressful, and professional guidance and supervision are important ingredients for an effective procedure that values patient safety over affordability. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that healthcare providers are able to find a position and environment that facilitates, rather than inhibits, professional growth.
Medical Associates Consulting specializes in providing permanent placement for physicians and midlevel healthcare providers. Since 2001, our nationwide medical staffing agency has provided CRNA jobs and anesthesia jobs to promising candidates. Contact us for a free consultation and find a job that’s right for you!
