GA HB251

Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) may order and administer anesthesia and develop anesthesia plans in coordination with a licensed physician, replacing the previous requirement that they work "under the direction and responsibility" of a physician.

"Anesthesia plan" is defined to include evaluating patients, making referrals, choosing anesthetic agents and techniques, and ordering medications and tests before, during, and after anesthesia administration.

"Coordination" is defined as physicians and CRNAs working together to manage patient care through information sharing, discussing diagnosis and treatment, and developing anesthesia plans.

Physicians who are not directly providing anesthesia delivery are shielded from liability for acts or omissions of a CRNA administering anesthesia under this coordination model.

Healthcare facilities retain authority to adopt their own policies relating to the provision of anesthesia.