Dive Brief:
- The Colorado Supreme Court has upheld the Colorado governor's decision to opt-out of the Medicare supervision rule for certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs).
- The Supreme Court's decision will allow CRNAs to practice in rural or critical access hospitals in the state of Colorado without direct supervision by a physician.
- The Colorado Hospital Association applauded the court's decision.
Dive Insight:
Since opting out of the supervision rule became an option in 2001, several states have chosen to do so. And as the physician shortage becomes greater, more are likely to follow suit, especially since some state hospital associations seem to be on board. "CHA firmly believes it is more important than ever that qualified health care practitioners, including CRNAs, be permitted to practice up to the maximum level of care delivery permitted under their respective licenses," said Colorado Hospital Association President and CEO Steven Summer.
To opt out, the state's governor must submit a letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services attesting that opting out is in the state's best interest and is consistent with state law.