[NurseDiva04]

I was doing some research on a school and found out that they have an Anesthesiologist Assistant Program. I know that the program doesn't require a BSN degree. Also, it may require more advance science courses. However, to you, what do you see as the Pros & Cons vs. CRNA?

Thanks.

[user69]

I too was looking into the two areas. There are a number of old posts about this subject. In my oppinion the bottom line is that if you already have the qualifications to be accepted into CRNA it will provide more options for the same amount of time in training, if not then AA may be the way to go. CRNAs can practice many more areas, but AAs are growing in popularity due to the overall shortage of providers. With only three AA schools currently in operation, there is more competition to get into the AA program vs. the many CRNA programs out there. I think both groups just want to provide the best care possible for the patient, and make a fair living doing it.


Allen

[ThinkingAboutIt]

AA Pros
No experience required to go to grad school

AA Cons
Less Money
Required to work directly under the supervision of an MDA
Very few schools teach it

CRNA Pros
More Money
More Autonomy (Not Required to work directly under the supervision of an MDA)

CRNA Cons
Requires a critical care experience as an RN
Requires either a ADN + other BS degree or a BSN degree

[athomas91]

we were talking about this the other day in clinical....even the doc's are starting to dislike having AA's - because they are sick of being called right and left to ok a med.....

[alansmith52]

lol... rofl

Originally Posted by athomas91

we were talking about this the other day in clinical....even the doc's are starting to dislike having AA's - because they are sick of being called right and left to ok a med.....

[deepz]

Here's a link. Some ASA distortion and mis-statements, but lots of info:

http://www.outpatientsurgery.net/200...rtage.php?pg=2

deepz

[kmchugh]

So far, the biggest cons of being an AA are the lack of autonomy and the limitations on where you can practice.

Currently, not all states allow AA's to practice. We have about a year left on my current contract, and we are considering where we will go (if we go anywhere) when the contract is up. I can move to any of the states. Currently, we are thinking along the lines of the southeast, South Carolina, etc.

KM

[Pete495]

Your're thinking of moving again Kevin? Thought you guys were nice and cozy there in Illinois

[user69]

Why is there such a bitter relationship between the CRNA and AA community?
The number of AAs appears to be so small that they are not worth the amount of attention that they receive. Is there a push from there side to limit the practices of CRNAs?


Allen

[ThinkingAboutIt]

Originally Posted by user69

Why is there such a bitter relationship between the CRNA and AA community?
The number of AAs appears to be so small that they are not worth the amount of attention that they receive. Is there a push from there side to limit the practices of CRNAs?


Allen

Simple, the doctors have traditionally gotten almost all of the health care pie, and AA's are a way that they can keep control and set policy. The doctors want to recieve the fees for all services, and then HIRE helpers who do all the work and just get an hourly wage. No head to head competition for those fees.