Yes, CRNAs are in very high demand. The demand for certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) is higher than ever, with projected employment rates for nurse anesthetists expected to grow by 14% over the next ten years.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job opportunities for RNs (which include CRNAs) are projected to be excellent and grow much faster than the national average relative to other occupations.
Advanced practice areas, including nurse anesthetists, will continue to be in high demand in underserved communities, including rural and urban areas. Advanced practice nurses increasingly provide a lower-cost alternative to primary care physicians.
Physician offices will see the most employment growth at 48%, as more procedures once only available through hospitals can be carried out in outpatient centers and physician offices, and ambulatory care centers. This will provide more job opportunities for CRNAs and RNs in general.
The largest job growth sector for CRNAs is in outpatient care centers and home healthcare services.
Projected growth rates by industry as reported by the BLS are as follows:
Physician offices at 48%
Home health care services at 33%
Nursing care facilities at 25%
Employment services at 24%
Hospitals both public and private at 17%
