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With the growing demand for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) in healthcare, developing and preparing future nurse anesthetists is more important than ever. As training needs and educational requirements continue to evolve, anesthesia programs have to adapt as well to maintain the high standards needed to provide the right care.
Today’s guest is Michael Greco, Ph.D., DNP, CRNA, who has been at the forefront of addressing this critical need through innovative educational strategies. This conversation offers a fascinating glimpse into how his initiatives are reshaping the CRNA workforce and improving access to quality anesthesia care.
Michael’s journey is one of ambition and vision. As the former program director at Columbia University, he was approached by one of the largest health systems in the Northeast to spearhead a CRNA practice. Initially hesitant, Michael embraced the opportunity, leading to the creation of a dual certification program that combines CRNA and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner training. This groundbreaking approach not only addresses the shortage of CRNAs but also enhances their skill set, making them more versatile and valuable in the healthcare system.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
- A brief history of the DNP degree and the evolution of educational requirements.
- The purpose of the combined AGACNP/CRNA program.
- How much buy-in has there been and what pushback has he received?
- How can our nurse anesthesiology profession benefit from these combined programs?
- The details that are most important to know.
About our guest: https://jobs.northwell.edu/blog/2019/01/20/celebrating-crna-week-meet-michael-greco-spearheading-big-changes-crnas-northwell-health/
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"The most damaging phrase in our language is, ‘We've always done it that way.’"
- Michael Greco, Ph.D., DNP, CRNA
