Independent Nurse Anesthetist Practice

---Problem or Opportunity---

   HCFA has issued a final regulation that will allow nurse anesthetists to practice independently without physician supervision where state law permits.  Currently twenty-nine states allow nurse anesthetists to practice independently.  This rule was published in the January 18th Federal Register.

    What does this change mean for the specialty of pain management?  One must surmise that there will be an increase in pain management procedures being provided by independent nurse anesthetist, especially in rural areas that are not served by physicians trained in neural blockade.  Whether this is good or bad for the specialty remains to be seen.

    The independent practice of nurse anesthetists in the provision of conscious sedation during interventional pain management procedures may present opportunities for the pain management specialist to improve the quality of care and comfort for the patient and allow the pain management physician to focus solely on the procedure without the distraction of patient monitoring.  Other opportunities include expansion of the anesthesia care team model to allow for the physician to perform the evaluation of the patient in pain while the nurse anesthetist performs basic nerve block procedures.

    Your Thoughts And Comments Are Welcome!

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