The way I see it: If you already have a nursing background why not go for the CRNA--you can work anywhere you want. If you have another background perhaps the AA is worth considering. Living in Louisiana I can only speak for Louisiana and here a CRNA can work without an anesthesiologist in most hospitals. It is solely up to the hospital. CRNAs do 95% of the cases on their own even in the hospitals that require an anesthesiolgist on site. Some CRNAs I know have started their own group for the money and tax benefits. Also, the OBGYN and surgeons seem to prefer CRNA b/c of the nursing background and anesthesiologist seem to back AA as this means more money for anesthesiologists. The way things are going CRNA and AA should come together b/c when (if?) AA is passed then it is only a matter of time before the anesthesiologists find someone to replace the AA for less pay. As far as pay goes, I know a CRNA in larger cities of Louisiana starts around $160,000 and I doubt AA would get this much. Both paths have their benefits I guess. Good luck.
