Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are experiencing a surge in demand, with employment projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics showing a 10% increase until 2033. This growth is driven by an aging population, greater emphasis on preventive care, and the unique role that CRNAs play in delivering anesthesia services, particularly in rural areas where they account for more than 80% of anesthesia providers in rural areas.

The Expanding Role of CRNAs

Each year, CRNAs administer over 50 million anesthetics in the United States, playing a critical role in expanding access to anesthesia care. Approximately one-third of U.S. hospitals and more than two-thirds of rural hospitals rely exclusively on CRNAs for anesthesia services. This independence allows CRNAs to support a wide range of specialties, including general surgery, obstetrics, trauma, cardiac, and more.

CRNAs are especially critical in serving medically underserved populations and military personnel, often working independently in rural areas where access to anesthesia care is limited. Their ability to practice independently is essential to meeting the growing demand for anesthesia services while alleviating staffing challenges in remote areas.

States Where CRNAs Can Practice Independently

The scope of practice for CRNAs varies by state, with some states allowing CRNAs to work without anesthesiologist supervision. These regulations grant CRNAs the ability to practice to the full extent of their training, providing vital anesthesia care in areas where physician support may be limited.

The following states permit CRNAs to practice independently:

Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington D.C., Washington State, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

States Where CRNAs Can Practice Independently

  • =Independent
  • =Not Independent

It's important to note that these regulations are subject to change as laws evolve, so always check the current guidelines if you're interested in practicing independently.

Why CRNAs Choose Independent Practice

Working independently as a CRNA can offer unique benefits. Although practicing alone can pose challenges, many experienced CRNAs appreciate the opportunity to expand their skills, work autonomously, and enjoy a more flexible schedule. Tenured CRNAs often thrive in this setting, utilizing various case types to enhance their skill sets. New graduates, on the other hand, may prefer supervision as they build their experience.

Here's a perspective from a Medicus locum tenens CRNA who practices independently:

"Working in an independent practice as a CRNA allows me to practice to the full extent of my training, which in turn helps me become a well-rounded provider. I enjoy doing regional anesthesia, including spinal, epidurals, and peripheral nerve blocks. They offer quick pain relief, better pain control, and also decrease opioid use. There is an immense feeling of satisfaction when you are the one performing the pre-op evaluation, deciding and carrying out the anesthetic plan, and continuing to manage the postoperative phase." - Kelsey, CRNA.

Interested in Working as a Locum Tenens CRNA with Medicus?

While not all states allow independent practice, pursuing CRNA locum jobs offers flexibility and choice in where, when, and how you work. Locum tenens CRNA positions empower CRNAs to explore opportunities in states with independent practice laws while enjoying the ability to travel, customize their schedules, and enhance their professional growth.

At Medicus, we prioritize your preferences, ensuring that each CRNA locum job we present you aligns with your desired practice style. Whether you are seeking independence, professional variety, or work-life balance, CRNA locum tenens roles provide a dynamic solution to meet your career goals.

Interested in exploring the possibilities of CRNA locum tenens positions? View our open CRNA locum jobs here, or complete the short form below to connect with a Medicus Recruiter today.