The Buckeye Institute has presented testimony to the Ohio Senate Health Committee in support of Ohio House Bill 52, which aims to address the state’s shortage of healthcare providers. The organization argues that allowing certified registered nurse anesthesiologists (CRNAs) to practice to the full extent of their training and collaborate with physicians will help alleviate staffing shortages in medical care.
Rea S. Hederman Jr., vice president of policy at The Buckeye Institute, stated, “The American Society of Anesthesiologists has already called the shortage of anesthesiologists a crisis and has suggested several solutions.” He added that House Bill 52 would “ease the pain of some care provider shortages by allowing certified registered nurse anesthesiologists (CRNA) to practice to the full extent of their medical training and collaborate with physicians.” According to Hederman, this bill would also “remove the onerous aspects of supervision and rely more on consulting agreements between CRNAs and physicians,” a system that most states have already adopted.
Hederman emphasized that as Ohio’s population ages, demand for healthcare services will increase. While advancements such as artificial intelligence and telehealth may meet some needs, more human providers are necessary, especially in rural areas where shortages are most acute. He pointed out that restrictive supervisory requirements can lead to higher costs and limited services.
Citing guidance from federal agencies, Hederman noted that “the Federal Trade Commission has warned against supervisory agreements that restrict nurses from using their full training,” and referenced expert opinions confirming advanced practice registered nurses’ safety and effectiveness as independent providers. During the COVID-19 pandemic, several states—and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs—temporarily suspended or permanently removed collaborative supervision requirements for CRNAs to address urgent gaps in provider networks.
Hederman referred to research from California indicating that after removal of supervisory requirements for CRNAs under Medicare, anesthesiologists reported no change in work hours but spent more time providing direct patient care during critical moments.
Concluding his testimony, Hederman said, “House Bill 52 will clarify Ohio’s regulation of CRNAs, expand their authorization to practice, and help meet Ohio’s growing medical needs.”
