Anesthesia has changed drastically over the last several years, as reimbursement policies, a staffing crisis and technology development have created shifts in the anesthesia workforce.
Jerry Campbell, a retired CRNA of 53 years in Emporia, Kan,. joined Becker’s to share his insights for aspiring anesthesiologists.
Editor’s note: Responses have been lightly edited for clarity and length:
Question: If you were advising a medical student considering anesthesia, what would you tell them about the future of the specialty?
JC: If I were advising a medical school or nursing school student about a career in anesthesia, I’d tell them it better be a calling and your passion. High incomes without adequate third-party reimbursement cannot continue indefinitely. Finances in healthcare are going to be a continuing challenge and I believe it will get worse before it gets better. Being able to “supervise” or “direct” four CRNAs or anesthesia assistants is too expensive a model and will be phased out as it already has been in some locations. I had a prospective AA student shadow me and I explained this to them, too. The practice of anesthesia will eventually be left to those who can practice independently as CRNAs have proven we can do.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.
