Posted by AA's Can Do iT on December 29, 2006, 8:03 am, in reply to "Re: R.N. to A.A."
Crap! Lies! Falst Truths! ASA never tried to push CRNA's out of the market as they have no control over CRNA programs. The number of Residency slots is now near an all time high as the ASA realizes the best way to fight the AANA is with more providers.
With CRNA salaries approaching MDA levels in some areas it is the AANA that needs to be worried; after all, who would hire a Nurse when they can get a Doctor. And yes, Independent CRNA salaries are close to MDA levels so the AANA needs to be worried about Medicare Rates and reimbursement pay.
The AA's are not a failed experiment; in fact, the AA programs are very successful and the number of schools could easily double over the next ten years. I bet that 16 more AA programs could open tomorrow and with the right PR campaign at the college level all the slots would be filled with good students.