Tension between anesthesiologists and certified registered nurse anesthetists is increasing as the final rule for Medicare physician fees allows CRNAs to practice pain management and anesthesia-related duties, according to Health Leaders Media.
CRNAs have been getting paid for pain management services for 20 years, according to the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, but when Medicare contractor Noridian stopped reimbursing them in 2011, a strong policy needed to be adopted.
State hospital associations in several rural states praised the rule, saying rural hospital rely on CRNAs to provide care. However, the American Society of Anesthesiologists publicly stated it thinks the policy jeopardizes patient safety by allowing unqualified individuals to practice pain management.
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CRNAs have been getting paid for pain management services for 20 years, according to the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, but when Medicare contractor Noridian stopped reimbursing them in 2011, a strong policy needed to be adopted.
State hospital associations in several rural states praised the rule, saying rural hospital rely on CRNAs to provide care. However, the American Society of Anesthesiologists publicly stated it thinks the policy jeopardizes patient safety by allowing unqualified individuals to practice pain management.
More Articles on Anesthesia:
Propofol May Prevent Brain From Working as a Unit
Dr. Marijan Jednacak Joins Medical College of Wisconsin, Hospital Staff
Anesthesiologist Named Medical Director of the Year by EmCare