University of Oklahoma to add first public CRNA program

The University of Oklahoma is launching a certified registered nurse anesthetist program, the first of its kind at a public university in the state, university officials said.

Why it matters

Oklahoma faces a shortage of anesthesia providers, the university said. According to the Oklahoma Board of Nursing, .

At the same time, CRNAs account for more than of anesthesia providers statewide and are the primary anesthesia professionals in 75 counties.

Statewide need

OU estimates Oklahoma needs about 89 more CRNAs each year to meet demand. The new program aims to increase the number of trained anesthesia providers entering the workforce and expand access to care in rural and underserved areas.

Currently, the University of Tulsa is the only school in Oklahoma offering a CRNA program. OU’s pr