Legislation enhancing hospital flexibility for anesthesia care went into full effect May 10 following official confirmation from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that it had received the letter of attestation sent by the governor. This was the final step needed for the provisions in House Bill (HB) 4359 to go into full effect in Michigan.
The MHA-supported HB 4359 was signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and took effect Oct. 11, 2021. Sponsored by Rep. Mary Whiteford (R-Casco Township), the bill modernizes the scope of practice for certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) and allows flexibility for each hospital to choose the anesthesia care model that best fits its location, staffing and resources to offer safe and effective patient care by eliminating the state requirement that a CRNA must work under direct physician supervision.
Federal provisions have allowed states to request exemption from physician supervision of CRNAs under 42 CFR 482.852 upon passage of applicable laws and a letter of attestation from the governor to the CMS.
Members with questions on the new law may contact Adam Carlson at the MHA, while questions regarding amending their facility policies should contact Amy Barkholz at the MHA.