Physician Involvement in Anesthesia would be limited by HB-1256 -- part of the Governor's Health Plan
On May 2nd, the Pennsylvania House Insurance Committee met for testimony on Governor Rendell's health plan. Representatives from the Pennsylvania Society of Anesthesiologists (PSA) and the Pennsylvania Association of Nurse Anesthetists (PANA) were present to testify. Dr. Erin Sullivan, President, PSA and Dr. Joseph Answine, President-Elect, PSA testified that the anesthesia care team is time-proven and safe.		CRNA Independent Practice Act House Bill -1256
Furthermore, they testified that the anesthesiologist is an acute care physician that diagnoses and treats illness during the peri-operative period. Dr. Arthur Zwerling (Doctor of Nursing Practice, DNP), President-Elect, PANA stated that the PANA seeks independent practice for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists and he feels that an anesthesiologist is not necessary in most settings. See and hear excerpts of the testimony below (Testimony recorded and licensed for re-distribution on the PSA Website by the Pennsylvania Cable Network "PCN".)
Arthur Zwerling, President Elect, PA Association of Nurse Anesthetists, testifies before the PA House Insurance Committee (May 2nd, 2007) regarding the effect of House Bill 700 on the ability of CRNAs to practice independently.         Arthur Zwerling, President Elect, PA Association of Nurse Anesthetists, in testimony before the PA House Insurance Committee (May 2nd, 2007), answers Rep. Nicholas Micozzie's (R- Delaware County) question regarding the need for Anesthesiologists.                     Please upgrade your flah player to view this video. Upgrade now!         Please upgrade your flah player to view this video. Upgrade now!                     The Govenor's proposal will be introduced as separate bills dealing with each topic addressed. The bill permitting independent practice of CRNAs is HB 1256. To preserve the safety of peri-operative anesthesia care in PA by ensuring the involvement of physicians, we need your support in opposition to House Bill 1256. Please get involved. Email psagrassroots@millironassociates.com for instructions on what to do next.