By 2030, the United States could see a shortage of up to 120,000 physicians. Between the onset of COVID-19 and November 2021, the healthcare sector lost close to half a million workers. To access the complete Anesthesia Provider Shortage report, fill out the form below.
In the field of anesthesia, there are currently 42,264 active anesthesiologists and 56,000 active certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). By 2033, The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) predicts that there will be a shortage of 12,500 anesthesiologists, nearly 30% of the current staff. CRNA shortages are also predicted, especially for rural communities. By 2025, it is estimated there will be a gap of between 200,000 to 450,000 nurses for direct patient care.
The overall demand for physicians and advanced practitioners — including specialists in anesthesiology — will surge faster than the supply for the foreseeable future.
Anesthesiologist Supply and Demand
- Over 17% of anesthesiologists are nearing retirement, and 56% are older than the age of 55.
- Currently, there are 7,727 people per one active anesthesiologist.
CRNA Supply and Demand
- Of the current CRNA population, 62% are 40 years or older.
- CRNAs represent more than 80% of anesthesia providers in rural counties.
- It is estimated that 30,200 new APRNs in master’s and doctoral programs will be required each year through 2031 to meet the rising demand for care.
Anesthesiologist Job Outlook
The employment growth of physicians and surgeons between 2021 and 2031 is projected to increase by 3%.
CRNA Job Outlook
- The job outlook for the advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) workforce, including nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, and nurse midwives, is expected to grow 40% from 2021 through 2031.
Impact on Revenue
Surgical services make up about 60% of a facility's revenue. The OR is one of the more challenging hospital sectors to keep adequately staffed and optimally utilized. Healthcare leaders continue to face challenges in how to prioritize the recruitment and retention of surgeons, anesthesia providers, and OR staff. These roles are critical to maintaining revenue and providing a continuity of care for the communities a hospital or health system supports.
Burnout Among Anesthesia Providers
- Last year, 47% of anesthesiologists reported being burned out.
- 56% of CRNAs shared that they felt very or somewhat burned out.
Overcoming The Anesthesia Provider Shortage
As healthcare facilities face a shortage of anesthesiologists and CRNAs, it's crucial to find effective solutions to ensure patients always have access to anesthesia care. Many healthcare organizations have turned to interim directors and anesthesiology locum tenens to fill critical roles and supplement existing staff. Download our in-depth white paper to learn how hospitals and healthcare facilities can address the growing anesthesia provider shortage.
