Shortage of CRNA's??

[kkrnkk]

Obviously, there is a significant shortage of nurses and that shortage is predicted to worsen rapidly over the next twenty years. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services studies, it is estimated that in the year 2020 there will be a nationwide shortage of 500,000 nurses. So, it stands to reason that with the shortage of nurses, there will also be a shortage of CRNA's. Although, of course not at the same magnitude, I believe the shortage of CRNA's, given the supply and demand, will parallel the nursing shortage. I was wondering if anybody has any information about the statistics in your areas. I am particularly interested in the statistics for the Southeastern United States. I haven't had much luck in finding this specific information. Also, I was wondering, does anybody know the vacancy rates for positions in your areas and how long it actually takes to fill a position for a CRNA? If anyone knows where I might find this information, other than contacting facilities, I would love to have any input...

thanks-kk

[kmchugh]

The shortage of CRNA's is very real, and getting worse. First, there are fewer CRNA's than there are CRNA positions in the US. Next, if you combine the total annual output of all the schools that produce CRNA's in the US, we are graduating fewer new CRNA's each year than there are CRNA's who retire.

The median age of CRNA's is on the rise, and something like 50% (not sure of the exact statistic) are age 45 and above, looking at retirement in the next 15 - 20 years.

So, for the forseeable future, there is a shortage of CRNA's. Upside? You never need worry about finding a job anywhere in the US where you want to work. CRNA salaries are rising, and should continue to do so for the next few years. Downside? In some places, CRNA's (and MDA's) are having to work ever more hours to cover the same number of surgeries.

Is it worth it? To make three or more times what I made as a staff nurse, and not have to put up with staff nurse BS? You damn skippy its worth it!

Kevin McHugh

[meandragonbrett]

Great reply Kevin!

[AL bug]

kk, go to CRNA world and go to the jobs links. Many of the job posting boards post by region. I am from Alabama and there are lots of jobs in the Southeast. look at gasworks.com