Pennsylvania House Bill HB2335

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/30/26
• Refer: 3/30/26

Caption

Further providing for definitions and for scope of practice for certified registered nurse anesthetists.

Impact

By expanding the scope of practice for CRNAs, HB2335 aims to reduce the necessity for direct supervision from physicians or other medical professionals during anesthesia procedures. This change not only helps alleviate the demand for anesthesiologists in various healthcare settings, especially in rural areas but also reflects a growing recognition of the critical roles that CRNAs play in anesthesia management. Enhanced autonomy may also result in improved patient outcomes as CRNAs will be able to respond to patients' anesthesia needs more effectively, thereby increasing access to necessary surgical interventions.

Summary

House Bill 2335 is focused on amending The Professional Nursing Law in Pennsylvania, specifically addressing the definitions and scope of practice for certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). The bill expands the authority of CRNAs, enabling them to perform a broader range of anesthesia services and allowing them to specify treatment protocols without requiring oversight from physicians for certain actions. The essence of this bill lies in its attempt to streamline anesthesia practices, foster autonomy among CRNAs, and enhance patient care efficiency during surgical procedures.

Contention

Although the bill appears to gain support from numerous nursing professionals and advocates for healthcare reforms, it faces contention from some physician groups who argue that the proposed changes could undermine patient safety. Critics express concerns regarding the ability of CRNAs, working without direct physician oversight, to handle emergencies or complex medical situations that may arise during anesthesia delivery. This contention highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the balance of autonomy and safety in healthcare practices and the appropriate levels of collaboration between various healthcare professionals.