Bill > HR2234

This bill directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to update anesthesia and pain management standards within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), with several key provisions. The bill requires physician anesthesiologists to be certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology and certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) to be certified by specific professional councils, ensuring high professional standards. It mandates that anesthesia professionals complete at least 25 hours of direct patient anesthesia care and provides for suspension of professionals who do not meet these requirements. The bill also instructs the Secretary to update VHA Directive 1123 to recognize CRNAs as licensed independent practitioners, aligning with Defense Health Agency standards. Additionally, the bill requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to submit annual public reports comparing different anesthesia delivery models within VHA, including outcomes and cost-effectiveness analyses for anesthesia delivered by anesthesiologists, supervised CRNAs, and unsupervised CRNAs. The legislation aims to improve the quality, consistency, and efficiency of anesthesia services for veterans by establishing clear professional standards and promoting transparency through detailed reporting.

Business and Industry, Health and Social Services, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2234/all-info