Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists
Finding the Right Anesthesia Practice as a CRNA
For experienced CRNAs, the next role is rarely just about the rate. Practice model, call, and scope shape the day as much as pay does. Here is what CRNAs tell me they weigh, and how to get those answers in writing before you commit.
Confidential. No résumé needed for a first conversation.
What to compare before your next CRNA role
Two offers with similar pay can feel very different six months in. Ask each practice to put these details in writing so you are comparing like with like.
- Practice model: anesthesia care team, medical direction, or independent practice, and how that plays out case to case.
- Call: how often, in-house or home call, and how call is paid or traded.
- Case mix: cardiac, OB, peds, regional, and whether you will keep the skills you have built.
- Employment type: W-2 staff, W-2 locum, or 1099, and who covers malpractice, tail and benefits.
- Schedule: start times, late rooms, and how often cases run past the posted shift.
How CRNA pay is structured
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $236,590 for nurse anesthetists in May 2025. Actual offers vary with region, practice model, call, and employment type.
Staff roles usually combine a base salary with call pay, overtime or extra-shift pay, and benefits. Locum and 1099 work is typically paid hourly or by the day, with benefits, malpractice and tail coverage handled differently. Comparing total compensation, not just the hourly rate, gives a clearer picture.
How scope varies by state
Supervision rules for CRNAs differ from state to state, and some states have opted out of the federal physician supervision requirement for Medicare. If you are considering a move across state lines, check the current rules for that state and ask the practice how they apply day to day.
Source: American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA): state opt-out information (opens in a new tab)
For anesthesia groups and hospitals
Experienced CRNAs ask about call, scope and practice model early. Describing those clearly in the first conversation, in writing, saves time on both sides and helps the right people say yes.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a CRNA make?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $236,590 for nurse anesthetists in May 2025. Pay varies with region, practice model, call and employment type, so compare total compensation rather than a single rate.
Locum or staff CRNA: how do I choose?
Staff roles offer stability, benefits and a consistent team. Locum work offers flexibility and variety but less predictability. Think about how much control you want over your schedule, how you feel about changing facilities, and who will cover benefits and malpractice.
What's the difference between 1099 and W-2 CRNA work?
As a W-2 employee, the practice withholds taxes and usually provides benefits and malpractice coverage. As a 1099 contractor, you handle your own taxes and often your own benefits and coverage. Ask exactly what is included before comparing rates.
How does CRNA scope vary by state?
Supervision requirements differ by state, and some states have opted out of the federal physician supervision requirement for Medicare. Check the current rules for the state you are considering and ask the practice how they apply in its rooms.
Can I explore a move confidentially?
Yes. A first conversation is confidential, and nothing is shared with any employer without your permission. You do not need an updated résumé to talk.
Talk it through, confidentially
A first conversation is private and there is no obligation. Nothing is shared with any employer without your permission.
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