The American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology announced that Vermont patients now have “increased access to safe anesthesia care” as the state became the 26th in the nation to opt out of federal regulations that require physician supervision of certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs).
After Gov. Phil Scott sent a letter to inform CMS of the decision on July 2, AANA President Jeff Molter, MBA, MSN, CRNA, stated, “Increased patient demand, limited resources, and a state with rural healthcare challenges dictate that a system capable of meeting the needs of Vermont residents be prioritized. By signing the opt-out letter, this has been achieved.”
Added Tenylle Allen Critchlow, CRNA, president of the Vermont Association of Nurse Anesthetists, “Governor Scott’s action ensures Vermonters have access to proven, high-quality nurse anesthesia care, allowing healthcare facilities to maximize their workforce. As the third New England state and the 26th state nationwide to opt out of federal regulations requiring physician supervision, Vermont marks a milestone as more than half of U.S. states have opted-out.”
In his letter, Gov. Scott attested that he had consulted with Vermont’s Board of Medical Practice, Board of Nursing, and Office of Professional Regulation regarding “issues related to access to and quality of anesthesia services in Vermont,” concluding that “it’s in the best interests of Vermonters to opt-out of the current physician supervision requirements. Further, the opt-out is consistent with State law.”
