Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 1/25/2008

Question
I am a currently in the 10 grade and have decided that I wanted to become a anestheiologist when I grow up. My grades are good (3.7) but I am very worried that by the time I get to the point I choose my specialty  that all the jobs will be taken by CRNAs' because I have about 6 years even before I make it to med school !

Answer
Don't worry. CRNA's fill a niche but they cannot replace anesthesiogists. All CRNAs must be "supervised" by an MD (usually an anesthesiologist). They do no have independent practice privileges and in fact there is a shortage of people wanting to become a CRNA. So don't worry.

Ronald Levy, MD
Associate Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston