Introduction
The CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist) market has undergone significant transformations in recent years. These changes have impacted healthcare organizations, anesthesia groups, and CRNAs themselves. With the demand for CRNAs projected to increase by 14% from 2019 to 2029, understanding these shifts is crucial. This article explores the key developments in the CRNA field, including salary trends, educational requirements, independent practice, and more.
The Rising Demand and Salary Increases for CRNAs
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for CRNAs is expected to grow significantly over the next decade. The severe shortage of CRNAs has led to increased demand, impacting healthcare facilities and CRNAs alike.
Lokum’s CRNA Founder, Joy Ademuyewo, has created a modern, convenient, and unobtrusive marketplace that connects anesthesia professionals with facilities in need of their services. This platform fosters a sense of community among CRNAs and reduces dependency on middlemen.
When the pandemic hit, hospitals paused elective surgeries, leading to furloughs for CRNAs and other surgical staff. As elective surgeries resumed and the aging population increased the demand for anesthesia services, the market for CRNAs has boomed. Lucrative career opportunities have emerged, with starting salaries now ranging from $185,000 to over $300,000 annually. The CRNA profession is recognized as the sixth-best job in healthcare and the fifth highest-paying profession.
CRNAs Outnumbering Other Anesthesia Professionals
The American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) states that over half of the anesthesia workforce in the U.S. comprises certified registered nurse anesthetists. Federal data supports this claim, with approximately 41,960 CRNAs actively practicing in the U.S., outnumbering the 28,590 physician anesthesiologists.
New Educational Requirements for CRNAs
Currently, CRNAs must hold at least a master’s degree from a COA-accredited nurse anesthesia program. However, since January 1, 2022, new students entering accredited programs must enroll in doctoral programs. By 2025, all practicing CRNAs will need a doctoral degree from an accredited program. The COA has accredited approximately 122 nurse anesthesia programs in the U.S.
CRNAs Transitioning to Independent Practice
The COVID-19 pandemic led to temporary shifts that may have lasting impacts on nurse anesthetists and independent practice. The federal government paused the CMS physician supervision rule for CRNAs, a move mirrored by several states. By early 2022, 18 states had opted out of the federal Medicare requirement for physician oversight of CRNAs, encouraging more nurse anesthetists to move towards states with no such supervision requirements.
CRNAs as Nurse Anesthesiologists
In August 2021, the AANA rebranded itself as the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology, promoting the science of nurse anesthesiology and advocating for CRNAs. Despite some controversy from physician groups, the AANA’s rebranding reflects the profession’s history and values.
Conclusion
The CRNA profession is experiencing dynamic changes, from rising demand and salary increases to new educational requirements and a shift towards independent practice. Lokum, through its innovative marketplace, is addressing these shifts and supporting the CRNA community. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, CRNAs will play an increasingly vital role in providing anesthesia services across the United States.