Gaining a seat at the table is something our profession is working diligently to achieve so CRNAs can advocate for everyone on a local, state, or federal level. This year has served as a reminder that we need to continue fighting to eliminate barriers and moving forward. Debbie Barber, DNP, CRNA, is the former Chair of the AANA Government Relations Committee and dedicates much of her professional life to pushing for advocacy and increasing awareness among young CRNAs. Today she’s joins us to talk about those efforts along with all of the resources that the AANA has available to members.

Show notes and additional resources: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/?p=2595 

Get the CE certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf

On Today's Show:

2:48 – Welcome Debbie Barber, DNP, CRNA

3:53 – Some background on Barber

6:38 – The importance of understanding CRNA practice.

8:47 – The resources offered up by the AANA

11:17 – Should the temporary CMS guidelines become permanent?

15:53 – The standard of care is the same

17:14 – State resources available from the AANA.

21:37 – Should students be involved in advocacy?

26:58 – The barriers facing CRNAs.

30:41 – CRNAs need to become the administrator rather than relying on someone else.

34:16 – Running for office could become a great retirement job.

37:44 – What other career would you have chosen if not CRNA?

38:57 – Final thoughts from our guest today.