With over 1.4 million veterans calling Florida their home, the month of November holds a special place in the heart of many Floridians. As Governor DeSantis declares Florida’s Veterans Appreciation Month, we are reminded of the countless sacrifices made by our brave servicemen and women.
Yet, as we honor their service, it’s also important to acknowledge the specialized group of veterans who have been on the front lines of war for over 150 years – the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs).
The Role of CRNAs
- CRNAs have been an integral part of the U.S. military, serving in every branch and practicing on military bases worldwide. They possess the expertise to administer critical anesthesia care, from remote parts of Florida to hospitals nationwide.
- They are the predominant providers of anesthesia on forward surgical teams and in combat support hospitals, where 90 percent of forward surgical teams are staffed by CRNAs.
- In Florida alone, more than 6,700 CRNAs provide anesthesia in various medical settings, from surgery to obstetrical delivery rooms.
The Call for Full Practice Authority
- Despite their critical role, CRNAs are not allowed to practice to the full extent of their training, education, and licensure. This is particularly true in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), where barriers exist that prevent CRNAs from providing the full range of care they are trained for.
- Such restrictions deny veterans the high-quality, timely care they deserve. Allowing CRNAs to practice fully can help reduce wait times and expand access to quality health care for veterans, particularly those in rural areas.
- Furthermore, removing these barriers can also help address the health care worker shortage in Florida, ensuring that all Floridians have access to the care they need.
Next Steps
As we look towards the future, it’s essential to advocate for policy changes that will allow CRNAs to practice to the full scope of their education and training. By doing so, we can ensure that our veterans, and all Floridians, receive the quality health care they need and deserve.
So, this Veterans Appreciation Month, let’s not just express our gratitude to our veterans but also take concrete steps to improve their healthcare. Let’s work towards eliminating the barriers that prevent our CRNAs from providing the critical care they are trained for. After all, our veterans deserve nothing less than the best.
