Fewer fields in healthcare (or the economy more broadly) are more in demand than anesthesia.
Those who pursue this vital work often find it a rewarding field that offers not only a competitive salary, good benefits, job security, and flexible work hours but also a chance to make a difference in patients’ lives. This guide is a handy intro for new grads, those looking to make a career change, or anyone interested in learning more about an important member of the anesthesia team, a Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant (CAA).
What Is a Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant (CAA)?
To start, let’s clearly define the role: a CAA is a highly skilled healthcare professional who works under the supervision of a licensed anesthesiologist to provide anesthesia care to patients. CAAs are trained to administer anesthesia, monitor patients during surgery, and manage pain after surgery.
CAA FAQs
Like any role in healthcare, the CAA career path requires a good investment of time and energy to pursue because of these important—if time-consuming—education and training requirements, it’s important to understand the role well before setting off on that journey.
So to properly prepare potential candidates interested in a CAA career, we’ve listed below some of the questions that are most frequently asked of our anesthesia recruiters about CAA roles:
What is the job outlook for CAAs?
The job outlook for CAAs is bright. Industry experts expect demand for CAAs to grow due to an aging population and increasing demand for medical services nationwide.
What is the salary for CAAs?
While the Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn’t break down the salaries for CAAs, it does share data on the Anesthesiologist profession more broadly. For an anesthesiologist, the mean salary is $302,970, as a BLS national estimate across the profession.
What are the educational requirements for CAAs?
To become a CAA, you must complete a two-year accredited master’s degree program in anesthesiology assistant studies. These programs typically include a combination of classroom instruction and clinical rotations.
What is work-life balance like for CAAs?
CAAs typically work full-time hours, and they may be required to work nights, weekends, and holidays. Some CAAs also work on-call shifts, which means they may be called to work at any time.
What are the Steps to Becoming a CAA?
To become a CAA, candidates must complete the following three steps:
1. Earn a BA degree in a science-related field.
2. Complete an MS program in anesthesiology assistant studies.
3. Pass the CAA board exams.
How Is a CAA Different from Other Anesthesia Providers?
CAAs and nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) are both advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) trained to provide anesthesia care. However, there are some key differences between the two.
CAAs are trained under the supervision of anesthesiologists, while CRNAs are trained under the supervision of nurse anesthetists. CAAs also have a shorter training period than CRNAs (two years vs. three years).
In terms of scope of practice, CAAs and CRNAs have similar roles. Both can administer anesthesia, monitor patients during surgery, and manage pain afterward. However, CAAs are more likely to work in hospitals, while CRNAs are more likely to work in ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) and other outpatient settings.
What’s Special about a Career as a CAA?
CAAs are vital members of a healthcare team. They play an important role in providing safe and effective anesthesia care to patients. CAAs are also in high demand, so there are plenty of job opportunities and postings.
If you are interested in a career in healthcare and you have a strong interest in anesthesia, becoming a CAA may be a good option for you, with plenty of growth and opportunity along the way.
Looking for your ideal job in anesthesia? Contact Radar Healthcare Providers to find open positions across the U.S.
