The role of the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is vital to healthcare in Texas. CRNAs work as independent providers and are independently licensed and legally responsible and accountable for their own practices in Texas. They may practice as private practitioners on the basis of their own clinical privileges within hospitals or surgicenters; they may independently contract for the provision of anesthesia services in facilities; or they may be employed by a hospital, surgical center, a group of MDs, or a surgeon.