CRNAs and Anesthesiologist are vital to the healthcare system, read on to learn their key differences.
When administering anesthesia, two primary types of healthcare professionals are involved: Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) and Anesthesiologists (ANEs). While both work in similar settings and have a shared goal of providing safe and effective anesthesia to patients, there are some critical differences in education, practice autonomy, and salary. This blog will explore the differences between CRNAs and ANEs, including their education, salary, locum tenens opportunities, and practice autonomy.
Education
One of the primary differences between a CRNA and an ANE is their education. CRNAs are registered nurses who have completed a master’s degree in nurse anesthesia, which typically takes 2-3 years to complete. They must also pass a national certification exam before they can practice. ANEs, on the other hand, are medical doctors who have completed a 4-year medical degree, followed by a 4-year anesthesiology residency program. They must also pass a national board certification exam before they can practice.
Practice Autonomy
Another significant difference between a CRNA and an ANE is their level of practice autonomy. In most states, CRNAs can administer anesthesia independently, without the supervision of an ANE. However, in some states, they may be required to work under the supervision of an ANE or a physician. ANEs, on the other hand, are generally more autonomous in their practice and can work independently without the need for supervision in most states.
Salary
CRNAs and ANEs also differ in their salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual CRNA salary is $183,580, while an anesthesiologist salary earns a median annual salary of $267,020. However, it’s important to note that salaries vary widely depending on factors such as experience, location, and the type of healthcare facility where they work.
Locum Tenens Opportunities
CRNAs and ANEs can work as locum tenens providers, filling temporary positions in healthcare facilities when there is a staff shortage or when permanent staff members are on leave. Locum tenens opportunities can be an excellent way for healthcare professionals to gain experience, travel to new locations, and earn additional income.
If you are interested in working as a locum tenens CRNA or ANE, several staffing solutions are available. Wellhart, for example, is a leading locum tenens staffing solution that specializes in connecting healthcare professionals with top-tier facilities nationwide. Locum tenens jobs offer access to competitive compensation packages, flexible scheduling, and comprehensive malpractice insurance coverage.
Conclusion
While both CRNAs and ANEs work in similar settings and have a shared goal of providing safe and effective anesthesia to patients, there are some critical differences in their education, practice autonomy, and salary. CRNAs are registered nurses with a master’s degree in nurse anesthesia, while ANEs are medical doctors who have completed a residency program in anesthesiology. CRNAs can administer anesthesia independently in most states, while ANEs generally have more autonomy. While CRNAs earn a lower median salary than ANEs, both can work as locum tenens providers, although opportunities may vary. Ultimately, both CRNAs and ANEs play a critical role in ensuring the safety and comfort of patients undergoing medical procedures that require anesthesia.
Whether you are a CRNA or an ANE, working as a locum tenens provider through Wellhart can allow you to broaden your experience and advance your career. With a team of experienced recruiters and a nationwide network of healthcare facilities, Wellhart can help you find the perfect locum tenens position that meets your needs and career goals.