Wondering if the CRNA field is becoming too crowded? You’re not alone. With discussions of “over-saturation” making the rounds, it’s crucial to separate fact from speculation. From the expansion of new CRNA schools to promising job growth forecasts, we’ll uncover why the future for CRNAs isn’t just optimistic—it’s vibrant and full of opportunity.
Join me, Jenny Finnell, MSN, CRNA and founder of CSPA, as we explore the real landscape of our profession and what these trends mean for aspiring CRNAs like you. Ready to see how bright your future could be? Let’s get started!
Is CRNA Over-Saturated?
I’ve been hearing some chatter about the CRNA field getting a bit crowded, and I thought, “Wait a minute, let’s look at the facts before we jump to conclusions!”
So, I did some digging, and guess what?
The future for CRNAs looks not just good… it looks great!
Here are four main reasons why the CRNA landscape is looking solid. If you’re considering becoming a Nurse Anesthetist, take note of these!
New CRNA Programs
In the last couple of years, we’ve seen a few new CRNA schools open up. This isn’t just by chance; it’s a response to the increasing demand for our skills. More programs mean more opportunities for aspiring CRNAs like you!
More than 10 new CRNA Schools have opened since early 2023, all across the country. COA, the Council on Accreditation, releases regular reports of newly accredited Nurse Anesthesia Programs, plus all records of continuing accreditation needed.
Some of the new programs include:
- Bellarmine University in Louisville, KY
- University of Louisville Nurse Anesthesia Program, Louisville, KY
- La Salle University Nurse Anesthesia Program, Philadelphia, PA
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Nurse Anesthesia Program
- Ursuline College with Somnia Nurse Anesthesia Program, Pepper Pike, OH
- New Mexico State University Nurse Anesthesiology DNP Program, Las Cruces, NM
- Roseman University of Health Sciences Nurse Anesthesiology Program, Las Vegas, NV
- The Ohio State University College of Nursing DNP Program—Nurse Anesthesia Track, Columbus, OH
- The University of Texas Medical Branch School of Nursing Nurse Anesthesia Program
- Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing Nurse Anesthesia Program, New York, NY
- Ohio University-OhioHealth Grant Medical Center Nurse Anesthesia Program, Athens, OH
This doesn’t mean the CRNA competition is slowing, however! Read more about how competitive CRNA school is in 2024 & beyond by clicking here: CRNA School Competition in 2024 & Beyond
CRNA Job Growth Projections
According to the latest stats from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of nurse anesthetists is projected to grow another 10% from 2023 to 2033. This growth rate is faster than the average for all occupations. So, the job market is expanding, not contracting!
Diverse Opportunities
The great thing about being a CRNA is the variety of settings you can work in – hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, private practices, and more. Each setting has unique needs and roles, keeping the field dynamic and exciting.
High Demand in Rural Areas
There’s a significant demand for CRNAs in rural areas, where our skills are crucial in managing anesthesia services. This demand ensures that our expertise remains in high need, providing plenty of job opportunities.
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So, what does all this mean for you, the aspiring CRNA?
It means that if you’re passionate about becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, there’s a bright path ahead!
The key is to focus on your training, nail those applications & interviews, and keep up with the evolving healthcare landscape. The opportunities are out there, and they’re waiting for people just like you to step up and fill them.
Don’t believe me? Check out some of these recruiters who regularly ask me to work for them:
Don’t let the myths hold you back. Let’s keep pushing forward, learning, and leading in our field.
The future of anesthesia is bright, and I can’t wait to see how you shine in it! 💪
-Jenny MSN, CRNA and CSPA Founder
Important Links
CRNA School Prep Academy has membership options to help YOU achieve your goal of becoming a CRNA, no matter where you are in your journey. Join CRNA School Prep Academy today!
FREE! 8 Steps to Becoming a CRNA: https://www.cspaedu.com/ruxzegbtJ
Join the Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community
Get access to application & interview preparation resources plus ICU Educational Workshops that have helped 1,000s of nurses accelerate their CRNA success. Become a member of CRNA School Prep Academy: https://cspaedu.com/join
Get CRNA School insights sent straight to your inbox! Sign up for the CSPA email newsletter: https://www.cspaedu.com/podcast-email
Book a mock interview, resume or personal statement critique, transcript review and more: www.teachrn.com
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