Study: Unsupervised Nurse Anesthetists Do Not Add Risk
Allowing unsupervised nurse anesthetists to administer anesthesia did not increase the risk of patient complications or mortality, according to a new study published in the journal Health Affairs. The study's authors say the findings raise questions about a CMS requirement that nurse anesthetists be supervised by an anesthesiologist or surgeon to receive Medicare reimbursement. States can opt out of the requirement by petitioning CMS.
- "Unsupervised Nurse Anesthetists Pose No Increased Risk, Study Says" (Commins, HealthLeaders Media, 8/4).