TxANA Supports Full Practice Authority - SB 1859 & HB 3794

The Texas Association of Nurse Anesthetists (TxANA) proudly supports Senate Bill 1859, filed by Senator Mayes Middleton, and House Bill 3794, filed by Representative Drew Darby. These bills seek to grant Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) full practice authority (FPA) in Texas. With the demand for anesthesia services on the rise, TxANA advocates for removing barriers that limit CRNAs from practicing to the full extent of their education and training.

​"CRNAs are highly trained anesthesia professionals who safely provide care in various healthcare settings, particularly in rural and underserved communities," said Wendy Odell, DNP, CRNA, President of TxANA. "By removing outdated requirements, Texas can enhance patient access to anesthesia care, reduce healthcare costs, and improve provider efficiency without compromising patient safety."
 
Currently, Texas regulations require physician delegation for CRNAs. Anesthesia services can be delegated to a CRNA by a non-anesthesiologist physician, a physician anesthesiologist, or a dentist anesthesiologist. Oftentimes, the delegating physician has minimal to no training in the administration of anesthesia. These outdated regulations create unnecessary administrative burdens, increase healthcare costs, and lead to healthcare system inefficiencies. Physician delegation does not necessarily contribute to better patient outcomes. Furthermore, extensive evidence demonstrates the safety and efficacy of independent CRNA care.
 
Texas is facing a critical anesthesia provider shortage. FPA for CRNAs would address the growing demand for anesthesia services. In rural areas, CRNAs are often the sole anesthesia providers. Numerous facilities in Texas currently use a model where CRNAs are the sole anesthesia provider for surgical patients. Removing restrictive legislation and allowing CRNAs to practice to the full extent of their education and training streamlines healthcare delivery and reduces financial burdens on hospital systems, thus supporting the State's evolving healthcare needs.
 
TxANA is committed to supporting policy changes that empower CRNAs to serve their communities without unnecessary restrictions. The association urges Texas lawmakers to take action in support of FPA. Doing so will strengthen the State's healthcare system and ensure every Texan can access timely, high-quality, cost-effective anesthesia care.

Urge your legislator to support SB 1859/HB 3794 here.