Bill > HJR0122

This joint resolution directs the Tennessee Department of Health, in collaboration with the boards of nursing and medical examiners, to conduct a comprehensive study of the state's anesthesia workforce. The study aims to evaluate and make recommendations about anesthesia services across Tennessee, focusing on several key areas including the number and distribution of qualified anesthesia providers (specifically physician anesthesiologists and certified registered nurse anesthetists or CRNAs), existing education and training infrastructure, recruitment and retention challenges, and factors affecting anesthesia staffing. The resolution requires the department to seek input from various stakeholders such as professional associations and healthcare organizations, review peer-reviewed literature, and assess whether the current anesthesia workforce is being fully utilized under state and federal requirements. The study will explore complex issues like reimbursement, staffing models, workforce pipeline, provider burnout, and the aging population of both patients and providers. The Department of Health is mandated to complete the study and report its findings and recommendations to the relevant legislative committees by January 31, 2026, with a certified copy of the resolution to be delivered to key health administrative bodies.

Health and Social Services

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HJR0122&ga=114