Strategic Planning and Policy Impact Analysis: Nurse Anesthetist Descriptor Change

Abstract

Problem: In 2021, the national organization for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) changed their organizational title to include Anesthesiology. This led to six other state organizations also changing their title to include Anesthesiologist or Anesthesiology. A mid-Atlantic state organization requested a policy analysis to understand the impacts of an organizational name change and professional descriptor change. Purpose: The aim of this proposal is to provide the mid-Atlantic state nurse anesthesia organization with an impact assessment regarding an organizational name change and a professional descriptor change. These changes aid in providing clarity about the profession to the public, patients and other members of the healthcare team. Methods: Information regarding the policy impact assessment was obtained from the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) and the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA). These groups have been chosen due to their recent rebranding efforts on the national level. Interviews utilizing a Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, and Threat (SWOT) analysis tool were conducted to obtain information. A scribe was present to aid in note taking and data collection. This information was then transcribed into RedCap. Results: Five interviews were conducted. Strengths included clarity in the professional role. Weaknesses included the change being contentious amongst membership. Opportunities included the ability to rebrand and educate on the professional role. Threats included high costs associated with the name change and concern with opening Medicare legislation to change the descriptor of Nurse Anesthetist to Nurse Anesthesiologist. Conclusions: The AANA concluded that a rebranding of the organization can be a costly measure. Organizations with many needs may want to determine their highest priorities prior to implementing a name change. The change also needs to be supported by members who are passionate about the project. Consideration must be given before introducing legislation that may allow for changes to be made to current laws. This could ultimately change the way that CRNAs are able to practice within the United States.