Just as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are vigorous advocates for patient safety in the clinical setting, the AANA is an equally determined advocate for CRNAs concerning issues such as patient safety, access to quality healthcare services, scope of practice, educational funding, reimbursement, and many other legislative and regulatory matters in Washington, D.C. and in states across the country. As such, the AANA tracks state and federal legislation and regulation affecting nurse anesthesia practice, develops and carries out federal grassroots lobbying efforts, coordinates meetings with federal legislators and agency officials, testifies at federal and state legislative and regulatory hearings, and educates CRNAs and state associations regarding effective advocacy strategy and practice.