Posted by Scott (PA-C)
on January 17, 2009, 10:01 pm, in reply to "CRNAs going to doctorate, what does that mean for AAs"
74.196.66.70
Honestly I think it will have about as much an effect as the NPs going to a Doctorate program. They will have a Doctorate degree which deserves respect. However, in medicine there is much difference in the MD/DO and the Ph.D or DSN. They (CRNA and NP) will not be physicians which is what is recognized as the "Doctor" in terms of medical care. There is much difference in having a Ph.D or DSN and an MD/DO. I would be willing to bet the first time one introduces themself as a "Doctor" they will be put in their place. I say this because I HAVE SEEN IT HAPPEN!
Many will hide behind the fact they worked in an ICU or worked as an RN first which honestly in my experience hasn't helped alot of them much. I have a great respect for the profession (CRNA) but feel that the reality is that whether its a MSN, DSN or Ph.D you're still a mid-level provider and not a Doctor. And that goes for all of us whether on the Nursing model or Medical model.
Also I've seen some posts on how the MDA and AA's will be done when the Doctorate program becomes the norm for a CRNA. Some speak in the same paragraph about the Universal Health Care System. I don't see either of these coming simply because the new administration has much greater problems to deal with right now than putting in place a new health care system.
