U.S. Representative Chris Pappas Honored with AANA National Health Leadership Award 2025

AANA Honors Congressman Chris Pappas with National Health Leadership Award

On May 1, 2025, during its Mid-Year Assembly in Washington, D.C., the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) presented the prestigious National Health Leadership Award to U.S. Representative Chris Pappas (D-NH). This recognition honors individuals at the federal level who have significantly shaped national health policy, particularly highlighting the essential contributions of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs).

Established in 1992, the National Health Leadership Award reflects AANA's commitment to acknowledging leaders who support healthcare access. Congressman Pappas, who has proudly served New Hampshire's first Congressional District since 2019, has been a vocal advocate for enhancing the practice of CRNAs and improving healthcare accessibility throughout the community.

Throughout his term, Representative Pappas has been a dedicated member of the House Veteran's Affairs Committee, emphasizing the importance of dismantling barriers that limit CRNAs' practice while increasing the availability of their critical services. His legislative efforts include protecting nurses from workplace violence and advocating for fair compensation for VA nurses, ensuring that veterans receive the care they deserve.

Moreover, Pappas recognizes the need for healthcare access in rural and underserved areas, playing a pivotal role in co-sponsoring major bills, including the Improving Care and Access to Nurses (ICAN) Act and the Nurse Faculty Shortage Reduction Act. His active support for Title VIII nursing workforce programs has led to a concerted effort to strengthen nursing education and increase the nursing workforce for future generations.

Reflecting on his honor, Representative Pappas stated, "Anyone who has spent time in a hospital themselves or with a loved one can tell you how important our dedicated nurses are to making sure patients get the care they need. That is why I am a steadfast supporter of ensuring patients have access to the quality care nurses provide, which increases healthcare access, improves the quality of care, and lowers costs for patients. I'm grateful for this recognition and look forward to exploring additional ways to support our nurses, including CRNAs, in Congress."

AANA President Jan Setnor commended Congressman Pappas for his unwavering leadership and commitment to ensuring access to quality healthcare for both patients and veterans. She emphasized that "through his leadership, Representative Pappas continues to be a champion for patients' access, including veterans, to healthcare" and praised his understanding of the important role CRNAs fulfill in delivering safe anesthesia care.

As highly trained advanced practice nurses, CRNAs are essential in providing anesthesia care across various settings. Their expertise is paramount in delivering quality healthcare, especially in rural and underserved populations like those found in the districts represented by Pappas. A Gallup survey indicates CRNAs are placed among the most trusted professions, underscoring their importance in the healthcare landscape.

Pappas's efforts not only represent a commitment to enhancing healthcare access and policies but also serve as an inspiration for future initiatives aimed at supporting registered nurses and advancing patient care in critical areas. The award is a testament to the profound impact that dedicated individuals can have on shaping national health care policies, drawing attention to the vital role of CRNAs in advancing healthcare quality and accessibility across America.

For more information about AANA and the National Health Leadership Award, you can visit their official website.