Georgia Senate Bill SR491

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/24
• Enrolled: 1/26/24
• Passed: 1/26/24

Caption

Georgia's Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists; recognize

Impact

CRNAs practice in diverse settings where anesthesia services are required, including hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and dental offices. They play a key role in delivering anesthesia and perioperative care, which is crucial for patient outcomes across various medical procedures. In rural counties, where healthcare access can be limited, CRNAs represent over 80 percent of anesthesia providers, highlighting their importance in maintaining the availability of vital medical services in underserved regions.

Summary

Senate Resolution 491 recognizes and commends Georgia's Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) for their valuable contributions to healthcare in the state. The resolution highlights the historical context of CRNAs in Georgia, noting their presence since 1916 and the establishment of the Georgia Association of Nurse Anesthetists in 1938. With over 1,500 members, this organization underscores the significance of CRNAs as an essential component of the medical workforce, particularly in areas lacking sufficient physician providers.

Contention

While SR491 is a resolution that primarily honors the profession of CRNAs, it indirectly brings attention to ongoing discussions regarding healthcare access and the emphasis on utilizing advanced practice registered nurses in the context of rural healthcare. The recognition of CRNAs may also provoke discussions about the scope of practice and the collaborative models of care that include nurse anesthetists and physician providers in anesthesia delivery.