CRNAs are in high demand across the U.S., particularly in rural and underserved communities. Learn why you should consider working as a CRNA in a rural community.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are in high demand across the U.S., particularly in rural communities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 12% employment growth for nurse anesthetists between 2021 and 2031, and the U.S. News & World Report ranks the career #10 on its list of the best healthcare jobs in 2023.
CRNAs administer more than 50 million anesthetics to patients across the country each year, and they represent more than 80% of anesthesia providers in rural communities, according to data from the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA).
Since many rural hospitals are critical access hospitals, they often rely on independently practicing CRNAs as their primary or sole anesthesia providers. Access to surgical care is an ongoing challenge for patients in rural communities, and CRNAs provide safe, high-quality, and cost-effective anesthesia delivery to underserved populations.
In February 2023, the bipartisan Save America’s Rural Hospitals Act (H.R. 833) was reintroduced in Congress. The bill includes increased financial support to rural healthcare providers and a provision to permanently eliminate physician supervision for CRNAs under Medicare requirements.
Under the public health emergency provisions of the COVID-19 pandemic, CRNAs have already been practicing without this requirement for three years. More than 170 rural hospitals in the U.S. have closed since 2005, and 453 are currently vulnerable for closure — which puts a burden on patients who must travel longer distances to receive care.
If the new legislation passes, it will help keep rural hospitals open and financially stable while protecting patients’ access to quality care. The new law may also increase the already high demand for CRNAs in rural areas.
There are many benefits for nurse anesthetists who choose permanent or locum tenens positions in rural hospitals, including competitive pay, advancement and travel opportunities, and rewarding contributions to local communities.
If you are a CRNA interested in working in a rural community, we can help.
