Arizona Senate approves $3M for nurse anesthetist training program to address workforce shortage

The Arizona House Appropriations Committee convened on March 31, 2025, to discuss significant funding initiatives aimed at addressing healthcare workforce shortages in the state. The primary focus was on Senate Bill 1446, which proposes a $3 million allocation from the state general fund for the establishment of a student registered nurse anesthetist clinical rotation program.

The bill, presented by Senator Janae Shamp, aims to enhance the capacity of preceptor training programs under the Arizona State Board of Nursing. It seeks to develop a grant program to support licensed healthcare institutions in expanding clinical training placements for registered nurse anesthetist (SRNA) students. Currently, Arizona's two anesthesia programs—one at the University of Arizona and another at Midwestern University—struggle to secure sufficient specialty clinical rotations, forcing many students to seek training out of state. This trend raises concerns about retaining trained professionals within Arizona, especially amid a growing healthcare shortage.

Supporters of the bill, including Jazz Coley, president of the Arizona Association of Nurse Anesthesiology, emphasized the critical need for local training opportunities. Coley noted that while previous funding successfully established 57 new clinical training sites, the state requires a total of 300 rotations to adequately train all SRNAs. The proposed funding is seen as a vital investment in Arizona's healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved areas where certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) often serve as primary anesthesia providers.

The committee also reviewed Senate Bill 1305, which modifies eligibility criteria for temporary assistance for needy families (TANF) to include non-parent relatives caring for children outside the Department of Child Safety (DCS) system. This bill aims to support kinship caregivers, who often face financial burdens when stepping in to care for children in crisis situations. Advocates highlighted the importance of this support in preventing children from entering the foster care system, thereby saving the state money.

Both bills received positive feedback from committee members, with discussions highlighting the importance of retaining healthcare professionals in Arizona and supporting families in need. The committee ultimately voted in favor of both bills, sending them forward with recommendations for further consideration. The outcomes of these initiatives could significantly impact Arizona's healthcare landscape and support vulnerable families across the state.