CRNA and administration

[destani980]

Hi, i am currently in the process of filling out applications for crna programs. I am also interested in a management level in anesthesia. Are there any dual degrees in nurse anesthesia and administration or is it better to get a second masters in heath administration/public health/business administration, or should I get a doctorate in nurse anesthesia (would that cover the administration side as well?)?

[nlrmandate]

Take a look at the Doctor of Management Practice in Nurse Anesthesia (DMPNA) program at the Charleston Area Medical Center (West Virginia): http://www.camcinstitute.org/anesthesia/default.htm

[JadamR15]

Hey, thanks for the heads up on this! This is exactly what I've been looking for!

[destani980]

thanks!

[alterego33]

I am curious what your goals are? Anesthesia is very much a clinical specialty and while there are management positions available in hospitals, they may be the first to go in the eventual healthcare reform. Since I have done both, I can tell you that I am the happiest when I am in the operating room administering anesthesia. But, that is just me.

[JadamR15]

"while there are management positions available in hospitals, they may be the first to go in the eventual healthcare reform"

Come now, you must explain that statment!!

[alterego33]

As I am writing this, I personally know several CRNA Department Administrators who have had their positions are being eliminated. They were given a choice to do clinical anesthesia or leave. One of them has not done much clinical in years and is trying (with no luck) to find another department administrative position.

Facilities are looking at ways to cut the budget and are cutting way back on middle management personnel. One local hospital cut their entire nursing education department and all charge nurses.

The status quo is not going to be an option.

[JadamR15]

Yes, my facility is also feeling the pain of the economy, mainly from a lack of elective procedures, which you know, tend to be lucrative for hospitals and anesthesia dept's alike.

What do you think about these Doctorate programs that stress leadership, management, and education. Think it's worth the 30 grand?

And to answer your previous question, I love the clinical portion of my job (ICURN now), but believe there's something to be said for quality administration. Thus, I was drawn to DNAP programs that offered training in that area. Whattdya think?

[sewnew]

WOW! I didn't know that such a degree even existed. I have only heard about the DNAP (doctorate of nurse anesthesia practice). I will definitely look into this further...Many thanks!