Value of Membership

1. Strength in Numbers: Advocacy in D.C.: The 2026 Mid-Year Assembly brought more than 1,300 CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists, RRNAs, and RNs attended the 2026 Mid-Year Assembly, resulting in more than 300 meetings on Capitol Hill with lawmakers from 48 states to advocate for issues including student loan reform, Title VIII funding, the ICAN Act, and veterans’ access to anesthesia care.
2. Protecting student loan access for future CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists
   AANA continues to challenge the Department of Educations’ exclusion of advanced nursing degrees from “professional degree” status. In August, a federal court in Massachusetts found that the Department’s exclusion of advanced nursing degrees is likely contrary to law, an important development in the ongoing lawsuit filed by AANA with the American Nurses Association and allied organizations. For now, students in MSN, DNP and DNAP programs continue to have access to higher federal student loan limits while the legal process moves forward. AANA helped drive a bipartisan letter signed by 160 members of Congress urging the Department of Education to classify CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists/APRNs as “professional students,” protecting access to the higher federal loan caps needed to sustain the nurse anesthesia pipeline. You can read the full letter here. 
3. Insurer accountability: “Anesthesia for All Act” includes CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists
   AANA endorsed and helped shape the reintroduced Anesthesia for All Act, with updated language explicitly including CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists and aiming to stop insurers from imposing time limits on anesthesia reimbursement. View the release here.
   
4. AANA Leadership Engages at RGA Annual Conference: AANA leaders met with governors and staff at the Republican Governors Association conference to discuss CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist practice autonomy, reimbursement fairness, and access to care issues. This engagement builds on AANA’s sustained presence across bipartisan policy events. In February 2026, AANA State Government Affairs staff also met with governors from both parties during meetings held in conjunction with the National Governors Association to discuss anesthesia workforce issues, rural healthcare access, and reimbursement parity.
5. AANA Opposes Anthem’s Coercive Network Policy: Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield announced a new policy penalizing facilities that use nonparticipating providers, effectively coercing CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists into joining network contracts. AANA is engaging federal policymakers and stakeholders to block the policy, which threatens CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist reimbursement autonomy and facility contracting independence.
   Anthem has also announced a moderate sedation bundling policy, effective July 1, 2026, which would eliminate separate reimbursement for certain sedation-related services—raising additional concerns about reimbursement reductions and operational impacts.
6. AANA Attends Democratic Governors Association Meeting: AANA State Government Affairs team met with governors and staff at the DGA Fall Policy Conference in Boston to advocate for removal of practice barriers and oppose reimbursement cuts.
7. AANA Responds to Proposed Limits on Peripheral Nerve Blocks: Several Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) proposed local coverage determinations that would sharply limit reimbursement for peripheral nerve blocks for chronic pain management. AANA is developing formal comments to protect CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist autonomy and patient access, coordinating responses with state associations.
8. AANA and Coalition Urge Federal Investigation into UHC Policy: AANA joined nine other provider and patient organizations in calling on the Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and Treasury to investigate and stop UnitedHealthcare’s discriminatory anesthesia reimbursement policy. This united front amplifies CRNA advocacy at the highest levels of government. Learn more.
9. CRNAdvocacy Action Center Mobilization: AANA issued a CRNAdvocacy Alert urging members nationwide to contact UnitedHealthcare’s leadership and demand reversal of the 15% reimbursement cut for independently practicing CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists.
10. Rural Health Transformation Program moves into implementation: CMS announced awards for all 50 states under the $50B Rural Health Transformation Program and created a new Office of Rural Health Transformation to oversee the initiative. AANA is monitoring implementation to push for removal of outdated supervision barriers and expanded full practice authority opportunities for CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists and other APRNs.
11. Medicare anesthesia payment updates for 2026: CMS published the final CY 2026 Medicare anesthesia conversion factors (state/locality-adjusted), effective Jan. 1, 2026, helping CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists understand reimbursement changes and plan accordingly. See the analysis and table on the AANA Reimbursement webpage under the drop down “CY 2026 Medicare Anesthesia Conversion Factors.
    In a March 2026 response to a CMS request for information, AANA urged removal of Medicare physician supervision requirements and called for investigation into anticompetitive commercial payer policies that undermine efficient, cost-effective anesthesia care.
12. Mandamus Lawsuit Appeal: Appealing ACA §2706 Enforcement Case: AANA has filed a notice of appeal to compel HHS to enforce provider nondiscrimination—continuing the fight for fair CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist reimbursement.
    The federal government responded on Jan. 28, 2026, and AANA filed its reply brief on Feb. 18, continuing the legal effort to compel enforcement of the ACA’s provider non-discrimination provision.
13. UnitedHealthcare Reimbursement Fight: AANA escalated opposition to UHC’s 15% QZ cut, including a meeting with the U.S. Department of Labor; additional federal agency outreach ongoing.

• Wisconsin Advances APRN Licensure and Independent Practice: Wisconsin implemented a new APRN licensure framework, including a pathway for qualifying APRNs to practice independently. AANA provided CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists with guidance and resources to navigate the transition from existing APNP or RN credentials to the new APRN license.
• Missouri Protects Fair Anesthesia Reimbursement: Missouri enacted legislation prohibiting health plans from limiting reimbursement for anesthesia services based on procedure time. Supported by the Missouri Association of Nurse Anesthetists and AANA, the law helps ensure fair payment policies and protects patient access to anesthesia care.
• Rhode Island Strengthens Patient Safety Protections: Rhode Island enacted legislation clarifying that only CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists may independently administer and maintain general anesthesia for elective, non-emergency procedures. AANA supported the legislation alongside the Rhode Island Association of Nurse Anesthetists, reinforcing patient safety and protecting the specialized role of CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists.
• Oklahoma strengthens anesthesia reimbursement protections: New legislation requires health plans to consider patient physical status, case complexity, and urgency of care when determining anesthesia service necessity and benefit payment amounts, helping ensure appropriate reimbursement for anesthesia services.
• Louisiana enacts payment parity legislation: Louisiana enacted legislation requiring services personally performed by CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists without medical direction to be reimbursed at the same rate as physician-provided anesthesia services, advancing reimbursement fairness and protecting patient access to care.
• Tennessee Protects Nurse Anesthesia Clinical Training Access: Tennessee enacted a temporary moratorium on many out-of-state nursing program clinical placements, but thanks to advocacy from the Tennessee Association of Nurse Anesthetists, accredited nurse anesthesia programs were exempted—protecting critical clinical training opportunities for future CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists.
• Washington: New legislation allows APRNs, including CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists, to directly supervise intravenous contrast procedures, improving care delivery flexibility and efficiency.
• Ohio: Ohio enacted legislation replacing outdated physician supervision requirements with a collaborative framework that better reflects modern anesthesia care delivery and improves access to care.
• Wisconsin: Enacts full practice authority for APRNs, including CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists, to practice independently following completion of practice hours specified in the law. CRNA/Nurse anesthesiologist scope of practice updated to explicitly include pain management.
• Utah: Adopted a workers compensation rule stating, in part, that “reimbursement for certified nurse anesthetists will follow Medicare guidelines.” This rule improves CRNA workers compensation reimbursement in how CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists were previously and explicitly only paid 75% of the amount allowed under the Division’s rules. Utah also enacted legislation requiring health plans to cover medically necessary anesthesia services without arbitrary time limits, protecting both patients and providers from coverage denials based on duration.
  Utah also enacted legislation granting CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists limited prescriptive authority for short-term medications surrounding procedures, further expanding practice capabilities.
• Mississippi: Adopted rules concerning Obstetrics (OB) System of Care standards for hospitals with CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists added to the anesthesia provisions for the levels of care and also adding a CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist position to the OB System Advisory Committee.
• AANA and the Mississippi Association of Nurse Anesthetists successfully opposed proposed rules that would have reinstated physician supervision and “collaboration” requirements for CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists. After coordinated advocacy and coalition support—including letters from state and national nursing and hospital groups—the proposal was formally withdrawn.
• Alabama Aligns Facility Rules with CRNA Practice Law: The Alabama Department of Public Health updated hospital and ASC rules to align with CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist practice provisions in the state’s nursing law—removing “supervision” language and ensuring CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists can practice under the direction or coordination of physicians, dentists, or podiatrists. The Alabama Association of Nurse Anesthetists successfully opposed adding “anesthesiologist” to the rule.
• New California Law Clarifies CRNA Scope of Practice: Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 876 into law on Oct. 1, 2025, reaffirming CRNAs’/nurse anesthesiologists’ authority to practice to the full extent of their education and training. This law ensures continued access to high-quality anesthesia care, especially in underserved areas.
• Colorado removes CRNA reimbursement cap in Workers’ Comp: State rule change eliminates the 90% cap when services aren’t medically directed—securing fair payment for CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists and strengthening access to care.
• National-Level State Advocacy Engagement: AANA engaged lawmakers at major state policy convenings—NCSL (9,000+ attendees), ALEC (1,600+; ~500 lawmakers), and DGA—promoting removal of unnecessary practice barriers and advancing pro-CRNA model policies across the states.
  AANA continues to engage lawmakers at major state policy convenings, including NCSL, ALEC, and DGA, promoting removal of unnecessary practice barriers and advancing pro-CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist policies nationwide. In 2026, AANA marked its 32nd year exhibiting at the NCSL Legislative Summit, engaging with legislators and staff from all 50 states.
• Strengthening State Associations: At Annual Congress, AANA met with leaders from 15 state associations to fortify governance, legislative strategy, and collaboration with attorneys and lobbyists—accelerating state-level wins.

• Protecting Patient Access Through Legal Action: AANA is committed to fighting payer discrimination that limits patient access to CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist-provided care. We filed a federal petition to compel the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to enforce the Affordable Care Act’s provider non-discrimination provision against insurers who reimburse CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists at lower rates than physician anesthesiologists for the same services. While the court dismissed the petition, AANA continues to explore legal options and advance advocacy efforts to defend fair pay and patient access nationwide.
• Fighting for CRNA Practice in the VA: AANA launched targeted issue ads in congressional districts where legislators continue to oppose full CRNA practice authority in VA facilities. These ads mobilize public support and hold lawmakers accountable for obstructing patient access and inflating costs.
• Defending Veterans’ Access to Care: AANA President Jan Setnor publicly responded to congressional efforts to uphold outdated VA anesthesia models, reaffirming the need for evidence-based care that expands access. AANA continues to build support for H.R. 2234, ensuring timely anesthesia care for veterans by removing unnecessary supervision requirements.
• Removing Federal Practice Barriers: AANA submitted official comments to CMS urging the removal of burdensome supervision regulations in Medicare, advocating for streamlined CRNA practice and reduced administrative waste. The letter is now being used in high-level meetings with policymakers.
• Unifying the Profession in D.C.: The 2025 Mid-Year Assembly drew more than 1,100 CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists and RRNAs from all 50 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico—the first time all jurisdictions were represented since before 2020. Attendees advocated on Capitol Hill for legislation supporting CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist practice and patient access, including the ICAN Act and VA care reforms.
• Protecting Medicaid Reimbursement with National Partners: AANA joined 14 other healthcare organizations through PARCA (the Coalition to Preserve Access to Care) in signing a letter to Congress opposing proposed $880 billion Medicaid cuts. These cuts could significantly impact CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists and other providers who are not mandatory under Medicaid.
• Ensuring Timely Anesthesia Care for Veterans: In March 2025, U.S. Representatives Lauren Underwood (D-IL) and Jen Kiggans (R-VA) introduced the Ensuring Veterans Timely Access to Anesthesia Care Act of 2025. This legislation aims to align the Veterans Health Administration with current Defense Health Agency policy, allowing CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists and physician anesthesiologists to practice autonomously. AANA strongly supports this bill, which enhances care for veterans by removing unnecessary supervision barriers and improving transparency and safety in the VHA system.
• Empowering CRNAs in Advocacy: AANA launched the CRNAdvocacy Action Center, an easy-to-use platform that helps CRNAs and supporters connect with lawmakers, stay informed on key healthcare issues, and take action on important policy changes. Visit the Action Center to get involved.
• Protecting CRNA Reimbursement: AANA is advocating for the Medicare Patient Access and Practice Stabilization Act (H.R. 879) to reverse the 2.83% reimbursement cut and provide a 2% inflationary adjustment. These efforts ensure CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists receive fair compensation and patients maintain access to critical anesthesia care.
• HHS Advocacy for CRNAs: AANA urged newly confirmed HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to permanently eliminate unnecessary CRNA/nurse anesthesiology supervision requirements under Medicare Conditions of Participation.
• Helping RRNAs During Crises: Through the REES Program, AANA provides financial assistance to RRNAs impacted by disasters like the California wildfires. This initiative ensures our future CRNAs can continue their education and training. Text “RRNA” to 41444 to donate and support this cause.
• Supporting Nurse Education: AANA backs the PRECEPT Nurses Act, which provides a $2,000 tax credit for nurses serving as preceptors. This support helps expand nursing education and addresses workforce shortages.
• Expanding Patient Access: AANA Vice President Tracy Young, MSNA, MBA, CRNA, spoke out in Health Exec about how reimbursement policy changes harm vulnerable patients, emphasizing the critical need to prevent cuts that worsen access to care for underserved populations.
• Engaging the 119th Congress: AANA is working with the incoming administration and new congressional leaders to advance CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist advocacy priorities, including eliminating practice barriers and improving patient access to anesthesia care.
• AANA CEO Highlights CRNA Impact: AANA CEO Bill Bruce, MBA, CAE, highlighted the critical role of CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists in addressing healthcare shortages and increasing access to care in a recent article published by Becker’s Healthcare. He called on Congress to eliminate outdated restrictions that limit CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist practice, emphasizing their ability to provide cost-effective, high-quality care.
• Medical Mutual Advocacy: AANA successfully fought against a discriminatory reimbursement policy enacted by Medical Mutual, which reduced CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist reimbursement by 15%. Thanks to AANA’s swift action, the decision was reversed, protecting fair compensation for CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists, particularly in underserved rural communities.
• Advocacy in the Media: AANA President Janet Setnor’s advocacy efforts were recently featured in Newsweek, where she emphasized the vital role CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists play in rural communities. She stated, “CRNAs are often the only anesthesia providers in rural communities across the nation.” AANA has made proactive efforts to combat unfair reimbursement practices and advocate for CRNAs’/nurse anesthesiologists’ rights nationwide.
• Veterans’ Healthcare Advocacy: AANA called on VA Secretary Doug Collins to grant full practice authority for 1,100 CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists working in the VA system, removing physician supervision requirements that create care delays for veterans.
  In 2026, AANA continued direct engagement with Department of Veterans Affairs leadership to advocate for licensed independent practitioner status for CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists throughout the Veterans Health Administration, helping improve timely access to anesthesia and pain management services for veterans.
• Recognizing Advocacy Efforts: AANA Director of Federal Government Affairs, Matt Thackston, was named one of The Hill’s Top 100 Lobbyists in 2024. This recognition highlights the strength and expertise of AANA’s advocacy team, ensuring CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist voices are heard at the highest levels of government.
• Kaiser Reverses Discriminatory Reimbursement Policy: AANA successfully advocated for the reversal of a discriminatory anesthesia reimbursement policy enacted by Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of Washington. The policy reduced reimbursement for QZ services provided by CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists to 85% of the Physician Fee Schedule. Just two days after AANA President Jan Setnor, MSN, CRNA, Col. (Ret), USAFR, NC, publicly condemned the policy, Kaiser reversed its decision. This victory highlights AANA’s unwavering commitment to protecting CRNA practice and ensuring fair reimbursement. Read the AANA press release.
• AANA Urges Congress to Prioritize Patients’ Care: On December 12, AANA called on federal lawmakers to prioritize the inclusion of provisions from the Improving Care and Access to Nurses (ICAN) Act (H.R. 2713/S. 2418) in year-end legislation. AANA President Jan Setnor highlighted the critical role CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists play in delivering anesthesia services. These efforts underscore the association’s dedication to improving patient care through legislative action. Read more.
• On Friday, September 27, AANA filed a petition for a writ of mandamus in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio asking the court to compel Xavier Beccera, Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), to perform a duty he is legally obligated to perform — enforce the provider non-discrimination provision of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) against insurance companies and health plans. Listen to this episode of Beyond the Mask where they discuss the filing.
  While the government was initially required to respond by November, it requested and was granted an extension to respond by December 30, 2024. AANA’s legal team anticipates the government will file a motion to dismiss, as is standard legal practice. AANA is monitoring the case closely and will provide updates on next steps as they develop.
• In comments to the Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule for Calendar Year (CY) 2025, AANA urged the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to alleviate cuts in reimbursement to anesthesia providers, such as CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists.
• Fighting Payer Discrimination: AANA continues to lead the fight against discriminatory reimbursement cuts for independently practicing CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists (QZ modifier), engaging with insurers, policymakers, and stakeholders to protect fair pay and patient access—especially in rural and underserved communities.
• Minneapolis VA Expands CRNA Practice: The Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Medical Center adopted a proven, patient-focused anesthesia care model allowing CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists to practice to the full extent of their education and training—improving veteran access to safe, timely anesthesia care.
• Protecting Title VIII Nursing Workforce Programs Placement: AANA is fighting to preserve vital federal funding for nurse anesthesiology education. Proposed cuts would eliminate Title VIII Nursing Workforce Programs, including the Nurse Anesthetist Traineeship (NAT). These programs are essential to educating future CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists and supporting the workforce pipeline.
  The 2026 Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program application cycle is now open, offering up to 85% loan repayment for eligible RNs, APRNs, and nurse faculty serving in critical shortage facilities or nursing schools.
  Recent federal budget proposals would cut approximately 70% of Title VIII Nursing Workforce Program funding, and AANA is actively working with coalition partners to oppose these reductions.
  In FY2027 appropriations discussions, AANA successfully worked with congressional champions and nursing partners to support increased Title VIII Nursing Workforce Program funding and oppose proposed federal cuts.
  In July 2026, the Senate HELP Committee advanced the Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act, along with the National Nursing Workforce Center Act and the Nurse Faculty Shortage Reduction Act, reflecting continued bipartisan support for strengthening the nursing workforce and expanding educational capacity.
• Advocating for Veterans’ Access to CRNA Care: AANA supports the Ensuring Veterans Timely Access to Anesthesia Care Act (H.R. 2234), which would align VA policy with the Defense Health Agency by allowing CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists to provide care autonomously. AANA continues to advocate for veterans’ access to timely, safe, and cost-effective anesthesia care while actively countering misinformation campaigns.

• National-Level State Advocacy Engagement: This summer, AANA met with lawmakers and governors at major state policy events—including the National Conference of State Legislatures, American Legislative Exchange Council, and Democratic Governors Association—promoting removal of unnecessary practice barriers and advancing pro-CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist legislation.
• West Virginia removed supervision and presence requirements. CRNAs/Nurse anesthesiologists can now practice in cooperation with podiatrists, physicians, and dentists.
• Idaho passed a law clarifying that physicians are not liable for CRNA-provided anesthesia care delivered independently.
• Oregon adopted trauma rules allowing CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists to serve as trauma liaisons in Level III trauma centers.
• Georgia secured favorable dental board rule amendments supporting CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist use of conscious sedation.
• Delaware adopted consistent radiological rules recognizing APRNs—including CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists—as licensed practitioners for x-ray supervision.
• New Hampshire and Michigan passed laws improving payor contract and reimbursement provisions for CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists.
• South Carolina defeated restrictive hospital rule amendments that would have negatively impacted CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist practice.
• State-Level Legislative Victories for CRNA Practice and Support Placement:
  • Kansas granted prescriptive authority to CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists, allowing them to prescribe medications and durable medical equipment.
  • New Mexico enacted a law affirming CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists may function independently without physician supervision.
  • Nebraska added CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists to its Rural Health Systems and Professional Incentive Act, expanding loan and repayment programs for CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists serving in shortage areas.
• Expanding CRNA Practice Rights: AANA is advocating for full practice authority legislation in 13 states and working to secure reimbursement protections in 10 states.
• Protecting CRNA Dental Anesthesia Rights: AANA successfully advocated against restrictive rules in Georgia, ensuring CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists can continue administering anesthesia for dental procedures without unnecessary limitations.
• New Hampshire enacted a bill prohibiting health carriers from establishing payment or reimbursement provisions based solely on a participating APRN’s licensure. The New Hampshire Association of Nurse Anesthesiology was involved in advocacy for this bill. 

• Defeat Anesthesiologist Assistant Bills: In the 2023-2024 legislative sessions, as of August 2024, AANA helped defeat 13 anesthesiologist assistant bills (or related efforts).
• Opt-Out Achievements: In 2023-2024, three states opted out of federal physician supervision for CRNAs: Wyoming opted out for critical access hospitals and hospitals with 25 beds or less, Delaware and Massachusetts obtained full opt-outs. Colorado moved from partial opt-out (since 2010) to full opt-out. There are now 25 states and Guam that have obtained full or partial opt-outs.
• Oregon and the District of Columbia enacted full practice authority laws for CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists.
• In South Carolina, CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists now have a pathway to obtain fluoroscopy certification. 
• Delaware adopted workers’ compensation insurance rules that require CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists to be reimbursed at the same rate as physician anesthesiologists. 
• Alabama and Kentucky enacted laws requiring a position for a CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist on the state board of nursing, appointed from candidates submitted by Alabama Association of Nurse Anesthetists and Kentucky Association of Nurse Anesthetists, respectively.
• AANA representatives attended over 520 meetings in 2023-2024, including 300 PAC events, 200 Hill meetings, and over 20 Regulatory meetings. These meetings addressed key topics such as the VA healthcare system, provider nondiscrimination, and Medicare payment reforms. These efforts ensure that CRNA voices are heard at the highest levels of government. 
• AANA President Jan Setnor testified before the House Veterans Affairs Health Subcommittee regarding National Standards of Practice for CRNAs in the VA. 
• The U.S. Senate introduced the Improving Care and Access to Nurses (ICAN) Act, which would remove barriers for CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists and other APRNs. We gained more than 25 cosponsors of the ICAN Act in the U.S. House of Representatives and hosted a Congressional briefing.
  
• Secured the appointment of Dru Riddle to the VA National Advisory Council, which advises the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) on matters related to research and research prioritization. 
• Held on to AANA’s Political Action Committee (CRNA-PAC)’s position as the largest nursing PAC and one of the top 10 healthcare professional association PACs in D.C. 
• Launched a direct giving program at NursingVotes.org so AANA members and the larger nursing community can help elect nurses and nursing champions. 

• AANA Foundation Awards: Over $6 million has been awarded to more than 4,700 individuals, including 212 research grants, 62 student research grants, 2,721 poster presentations, and 1,606 scholarships.
• FY24 Financials: Fiscal year 2024 saw more than $377,400 awarded in scholarships, research grants, and poster presentations.

View AANA’s Annual report here.

• Updated Professional Standards: AANA released updated Scope of Nurse Anesthesia Practice and Code of Ethics for the CRNA documents reflecting current evidence, professional standards, and member input, with expanded guidance on clinical responsibilities, leadership, advocacy, ethics, artificial intelligence, pain management, and emergent care.
• National Accreditation Recognition: AANA advocacy led to positive changes in QUAD A’s 2025 accreditation standards, allowing CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists certified in nonsurgical pain management to practice in QUAD A-accredited facilities. The update removes physician verification barriers and acknowledges AANA practice documents as part of CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist oversight. Review the new standards, technical corrections, change reports, and related webinars here. 
• In 2025-2026, AANA’s Professional Practice team developed or updated eight new documents in the Professional Practice Manual for the CRNA, including key resources on environmental safety, discharge after sedation or anesthesia, and office-based anesthesia.
  • Note: all guidelines are open for member feedback prior to publishing. See our current feedback requests.
• Practice Guidelines: Published considerations on Adding New Activities and Specialty Clinical Practice to Individual CRNA Scope of Practice, Patient-Centered Perianesthesia Communication, Guidelines for Critical Incident Stress Management, and Latex Allergy Management.
• Position Statements: Issued statements on Discharge After Sedation or Anesthesia on the Day of the Procedure: Patient Transportation, Environmental Stewardship in Anesthesia Care, Office Based Anesthesia, and The Role of the CRNA on the Procedure Team.
• Research Contributions: Over 175 abstracts of research conducted by CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists submitted for presentation at 2024 & 2025 AANA conferences.

• Where Community Meets Care: A CRNA’s Calling to Rural Health: AANA celebrated CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists serving rural communities through stories like Jen Chastek, DNAP, CRNA, ARNP—whose work bridges care and community—and Ben Campbell, MS, CRNA, NSPM-C, Lt COL (Ret), who delivers opioid-free pain management in rural Arkansas. Read more.
• Kerrville CRNAs Respond to Flood Disaster: CRNAs/Nurse anesthesiologists from Kerrville, Texas, were recognized for their lifesaving and compassionate care following catastrophic July 4th flooding—exemplifying CRNA dedication beyond the hospital.
• Ulysses Johnson III, PhD(c), MSN, CRNA, was flying home from a Diversity in Nurse Anesthesia event when he sprang into action to save a fellow passenger’s life during a mid-flight medical emergency. His quick thinking and expert care earned him recognition from fellow passenger and TV host Sherri Shepherd. Read more about his story.
• Success Stories: Jamie Applegate utilized methods from conference attendance and AANA’s practice guidelines to save a patient. Read more about her experience. See all CRNA profiles. 
• Fellow Inductions: In 2025, 40 new Fellows of the AANA will be inducted at Annual Congress, bringing the total to 263 Fellows over five years.

• Supporting the Next Generation of CRNAs: AANA received the 2025 ASAE Gold Circle Award for its efforts to broaden access to nurse anesthesiology by creating new pathways for RNs and APRNs. This initiative connects aspiring CRNAs with educational resources, mentorship, and professional development, helping more nurses explore and pursue careers in nurse anesthesiology. AANA also earned a 2025 Gold TRENDY Award for the Goldie Brangman AR pin, celebrating CRNA history through innovative, tech-enabled storytelling.
• Helping RRNAs During Crises: The REES Program provides financial assistance to RRNAs affected by disasters like the California wildfires, ensuring they can continue their education. Text “RRNA” to 41444 to donate.
• Recruitment Efforts: Engaged in exhibits and partnerships to recruit RNs/APRNs, supporting Program Admins for current students and assisting in increasing capacity for anesthesia programs.
• Resident Wellness Resources: AANA has collected and created a vast variety of wellness resources for future CRNAs/Nurse Anesthesiologists including the Resident Roundtable and more.

• Initiated a program to amplify the reach and impact of CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists across digital platforms. See who’s involved. 

• AANA provides members a near-real-time transfer of CE to NBCRNA and a CE dashboard to track CE earned to CE required.

• Support Provided: In FY24, AANA’s member services team resolved over 18,000 inquiries, providing timely assistance through phone calls, chats, and emails. We’re committed to helping you navigate your career with confidence.

• Supporting Member Wellness Through Partnership: AANA’s partnership with Parkdale Center for Professionals provides 24/7 confidential support for CRNAs and RRNAs affected by substance use disorder. A new peer-reviewed study highlights the positive impact of this partnership and underscores the value of AANA’s proactive wellness initiatives.
• 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of the AANA Wellness Program—a legacy of support for CRNAs’ mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
• In 2024–2025, AANA joined the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation and signed on to national initiatives that strengthen protections for healthcare providers seeking mental health support.
• Mental Health Advocacy for CRNAs: AANA is partnering with the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation to improve mental health access for healthcare workers. Over 1.25 million health workers now have better protections against workplace mental health stigma, ensuring CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists can seek help without fear of credentialing discrimination.
• Over the past 20 years, AANA has been dedicated to providing wellness resources to the CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist profession. These wellness topics range from SUD, Burnout, Stress, Second Victim Phenomenon, and more.
• In 2024, the Wellness Ambassador Network was created and made up of CRNA and Resident volunteers who serve as wellness advocates, using their tools and skills to increase awareness of available resources among their peers.
• In 2021, the Resident Roundtable was formed. This is a by RRNAs, for RRNAs open and judgment-free online peer-to-peer support sessions related to anything about the Resident experience.

• The AANA Helpline provides 24/7, confidential individualized support, for yourself, a colleague, or a resident who may be experience drug or alcohol concerns.
• From 2019-2023, the AANA Helpline and our partner treatment center, Parkdale Center for Professionals, answered 628 calls and were able to assist 192 callers with getting the treatment they needed.

• New Educator Podcast: Airway Exchange: Ongoing, every-other-Tuesday show (AANA + Beyond the Mask) for CRNA educators and future CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists—community, best practices, and academic excellence.
• New Digital Badges: Build verified expertise through evidence-based education designed specifically for CRNAs and nurse anesthesiologists. Earn Digital Badges in specialty areas, showcase your achievements on LinkedIn and professional portfolios.
• CRNA Education Edge: Launched in 2024, the platform now serves over 8,000 users, offering seamless access to continuing education courses tailored to your needs. Learn more.
• Journal Course Essentials: Provides low-cost CE to help CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists meet certification requirements more easily; each member receives six free journal courses annually. Learn more.
• CRNAs Leading in Pain Management: CRNAs are at the forefront of reducing opioid dependency and increasing access to non-opioid pain management solutions, particularly in rural areas. AANA’s Chronic Pain Management Guidelines emphasize multimodal pain treatment, helping mitigate the ongoing opioid crisis. Explore the guidelines.

Explore the full range of benefits and see how AANA is working for you every day. Your membership is making a difference.

• In March 2025, AANA hosted its first-ever Former Presidents Forum at AANA headquarters in Chicago. This historic gathering brought together past AANA Presidents to share insights, lessons learned, and mentorship with current Board members and staff. The event highlighted the enduring legacy and leadership of those who have shaped the profession and provided inspiration for the future.
• EDGE 2026: A New Vision for CRNA Educators: AANA is launching EDGE (formerly ADCE), a revamped event for CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist educators focused on teaching innovation, deeper networking, and career development.
• Diversity Anesthesia Pathways (DAP) Tour – AANA is visiting universities nationwide to introduce undergraduate students to the CRNA/nurse anesthesiologist profession through hands-on learning and mentorship.
• Major Meetings: AANA hosted three major meetings in FY24—Annual Congress, ADCE, and MYA—with nearly 3,500 attendees from all 50 states. Members received exclusive discounts and benefits, making these events accessible and valuable.

• AANA Honors Veterans and Expands VA Care Advocacy: AANA paid tribute to military CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists and veterans, while continuing advocacy for full practice authority within the Veterans Health Administration to ensure veterans can access the same high-quality anesthesia care they received during service. Read more.
• World Anesthesia Day Social Media Takeover: AANA’s first-ever social media takeover on Oct. 16, 2025, featured diverse CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists and RRNAs nationwide sharing stories that celebrated the profession’s impact and unity.
• AANA Founder Agatha Hodgins Honored with Historical Marker: Ohio History Connection will honor AANA founder Agatha Hodgins with a historical marker at the former Lakeside Hospital site in Cleveland, recognizing her pioneering contributions to nurse anesthesiology education and professional organization. Here’s a preview from AANA President Jeff Molter, MSN, MBA, CRNA.
• National CRNA Week celebrates the nearly 74,000 CRNAs/nurse anesthesiologists and RRNAs nationwide. Members amplified nurse anesthesiology nationwide during CRNA Week—including a social media takeover across AANA channels and a Today Show moment at Rockefeller Plaza with 200+ residents and faculty from Columbia, Rutgers, and Hofstra celebrating the profession. Here’s the video in case you missed it.