AANA Commemorates Veterans by Advocating for Enhanced Healthcare Access

On November 10, 2025, the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) announced its commitment to honoring America's military veterans, who have bravely served the nation. As we mark Veterans Day, the AANA highlights the critical role played by Military Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) in delivering anesthesia care within the armed forces. These professionals ensure that soldiers receive top-tier medical care, especially in difficult and forward-deployed environments.

However, veterans often face challenges when seeking healthcare after returning home. Despite having relied on CRNAs during their service, many veterans do not have the same access to these essential healthcare providers once they leave military life. Bill Bruce, CEO of the AANA, stated, "As a veteran myself, I understand the healthcare hurdles many service members face. We must ensure they receive prompt access to the necessary medical treatment."

Historically, CRNAs have proven their ability to operate autonomously in various branches of the military, yet the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) uniquely limits their practice authority compared to other advanced practice registered nurses. This lack of recognition restricts the quality of anesthesia care available to veterans. Jan Setnor, a retired Colonel and former AANA President, echoed these sentiments, asserting that CRNAs, who have provided care in the most challenging circumstances, deserve the full scope of practice that aligns with their training and expertise.

The CRNAs' role encompasses the entire spectrum of anesthesia care—from conducting pre-anesthesia evaluations, planning the approach, managing procedures, to overseeing recovery. Their comprehensive training equips them to meet the unique demands presented by diverse patient populations, including veterans with complex medical histories.

The AANA remains diligent in urging the VHA to eliminate these existing barriers. They assert that the autonomy exercised by CRNAs in military settings should also be applicable within the VA healthcare system. Bill Bruce emphasized, "The effectiveness and safety of autonomous CRNA practice have been demonstrated repeatedly in military environments; it is high time the Veterans Health Administration aligns its policies accordingly."

Veterans who have served with dignity deserve timely access to the same quality of anesthesia care available to others across the healthcare landscape. This Veterans Day, the AANA not only honors those who have served but reinforces its commitment to advocating for the healthcare rights of these remarkable individuals. For more detailed information, advocates can refer to the Ensuring Veterans Timely Access to Anesthesia Care Act of 2025, urging constituents to connect with their congressional representatives in support of enhancing veterans' access to necessary healthcare services.

In conclusion, as the AANA honors the sacrifices made by military veterans, it is equally important to recognize practical steps toward ensuring their healthcare access, particularly regarding the assistance provided by CRNAs. By striving for progress in policy reform, the hope is for a future where all veterans have equitable access to the high-quality care they have earned.