aa's

Question for the CRNA's here: I've always assumed the reason MDA's were pushing for AA's was to take control away from CRNA's and, essentially, make more money off of AA's by paying them less.

However, if these ads are any indication, they're paying AA's a lot of money. I'm told the $120,000 salary in D.C. is for real and, apparently, it's what they're offering both CRNA's and AA's for that position. Supposedly, this hospital is the primary proponent of AA's in the D.C. dispute.

So, the question is, if they're paying such high salaries, what's in it for them? What difference does an AA make in a situation like that, versus a CRNA if they cost the same? And why would they be fighting with the city council to keep AA's if they cost just as much?

I'm cynical by nature, and don't necessarily believe it's because they're concerned about the current shortage. Although I suppose that could also be a reason.

I tend to agree with deepz's A$A designation. This has got to be about the money. I'd just like to understand how this works for them.

Not a crna or srna but have read that some of the concerns are regarding the fact that MDA's can directly decide which cases AA's will or will not take. Because AA's practice is governed by the AMA doctors have control over their expansion. This is not the case with CRNA's because they work under their own license and are governed by the BON. This could be at least part of the problem. If CRNA's can bill for the same amount and have their own practice then that would cut a doctor out of the equation, this couldn't happen with an AA because they require a collaboration of some sort. Someone let me know if I am completely off base here !

And, for all you worriers and ruminators out there, understand this. CRNAs have been providing anesthesia in this country for decades. We are here to stay. In what capacity we will be able to practice depends on our continuing support of our national organization and political involvement to protect our practice rights at the state and national levels.

well said - it should not be a concern or worry - IF CRNA'S AND SRNA'S stay involved in the AANA and local chapters. i have found that many students do not find the time to understand the issues or even to be aware of them - which is a mistake - being involved prior to actually beginning our practice will only prepare us for our responsibilities once we pass that test!!