TRICARE Policy Manual 6010.60-M, April 1, 2015 Providers Chapter 11 Section 3.4 Nurse Anesthetist Issue Date: January 23, 1984 Authority: 32 CFR 199.4(c)(3)(iii) Revision: 1.0 DESCRIPTIONA Nurse Anesthetist, or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), is a licensed professional nurse who provides the same anesthesia services as an anesthesiologist (Medical Doctor (MD)). After completing extensive education and training, CRNAs become nationally certified; they can be licensed and practice in all 50 states. 2.0 POLICY2.1 The following criteria must be met for coverage of anesthesia services by a CRNA:2.1.1 The CRNA is operating within the scope of his or her license or certification required in the jurisdiction where practicing; 2.1.2 The CRNA is a licensed registered nurse; and 2.1.3 The CRNA is certified by the Council on Certification of Nurse Anesthetists. 2.2 If the CRNA is an employee of an institution, physician anesthesiology group, or individual practitioner, his or her services will only be reimbursed when billed by that employing institution, physician anesthesiology group, or individual practitioner. - END -