September 2012 | 1

MassCRNAMASSACHUSETTS ASSOCIATION OF NURSE ANESTHETISTS

SEPTEMBER 2012

A LETTER FROM YOUR PRESIDENT

Serving the past year as MANA’s president, I am grateful for the many things I have learned and accomplished. For one, I have learned that it is possible to juggle being a husband, father of toddler twins, full time anesthetist, and MANA president. However, it would have been downright impossible without the support of my wife and a great Board of Directors sharing the burden of working on behalf

of our membership. I have also learned that there are no coincidences or benevolence in politics; there is always an invisible yet palpable influence.

One of our biggest accomplishments was making certain CRNAs continued to be eligible providers for Mass Health patients. I can assure you that CRNAs are recognized as important providers of anesthesia care and are not healthcare’s best-kept secret.

We also have positioned ourselves nicely in preparation for continued healthcare reform, cost containment, and the formation of ACOs. By forming strong relationships with state legislators, we are able to highlight CRNAs and our importance. We have joined a coalition of non-physician healthcare providers to bolster our inclusion in new polices as they emerge. We are also involved in many other coalitions aimed at implementing the IOM’s recommendations calling for the removal of artificial barriers to our scope of practice.

I’m also pleased to see our new website rollout and am very excited about it’s potential. We are developing ways to improve membership interaction and power: grassroots action notifications, some type of member forum, and effective PAC fundraising options. Our new website will become an effective tool to bring together the Board and membership.

What a year! Thanks for the support and I look forward to seeing Donnell Carter become our next strong MANA president.

Sincerely,

Anthony Craig CRNA, MS

OFFICERS

Congratulations to the Newly Elected MANA Board!Donnell Carter, PresidentCaroline Haas, President-ElectMeryn Boraski, SecretaryNicola Bradley, DirectorJillian Sousa Coe, DirectorCaitlin Vitale, Director

Continuing on the board are Anthony Craig, Advisor, Robert Gauvin, Treasurer, Nelson Aquino, Director, Danny Furlong, Director, Patricia Kelley, Director.

Your new board takes office after our Annual Meeting on October 13th.

PresidentAnthony Craig, CRNA ajc153@gmail.com

President Elect Donnell Carter, CRNA dcartercrna@gmail.com

SecretaryMeryn Boraski, CRNA merynboraski@gmail.com

Treasurer Robert J. Gauvin, CRNA gauvin1@comcast.net

Executive Director/Newsletter Pam McKenna, CAE contact@masscrna.com

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Comprehensive Anesthesia Review

www.ccanesthesiareview.com(203) 567-0272

SRNAs! CRNAs!Join us for a LIVEreview course!

2Knoxville, TN – 3/8 thru 3/10Albany, NY – 6/7 thru 6/9

New Haven, CT – 10/11 thru 10/13

22 CECs

Bob Gauvin has been elected to the AANA Resolutions Committee and was elected by the Committee as Chair for FY 2012-2013.

Janet Dewan has been selected as Chair of the AANA Wellness Committee for a second term.

Steve Alves has been selected as a member of the AANA State Organizational Development Committee for a third term.

Lana L. Yaney, CRNA MS is a journal reviewer for the 2012-2013 year for AANA Journal. Lana has been practicing as a nurse anesthetist at South Shore Hospital for 20 years.

MANA members Janet Dewan and Nelson Aquino participated in and helped out at the AANA Annual Meeting Fun 5K. >>

MEMBER NEWS

September 2012 | 3

A Presidential election, Congressional elections and local elections loom large now as we enter the fall of 2012. Citizens understand that government has a direct effect on the quality of their lives. Americans

are gifted with the privilege and yes the responsibility of being involved in how their government works.

But, what about your profession? Have you ever stopped to consider that nothing you do as a CRNA is unaffected by government policy? Your scope of practice, your payment for services, your access to patients, are all directly affected by federal and state laws. For this very reason, even your founding members recognized in 1944, that the organization had to be aware of and involved in the policy that affected your professional practice.

“In 1944 the association hired its first lobbyist, Mr. Ingalls, Atty., to “watch the Bills in the Legislature” for $50.00 per year. He remained in that capacity until 1947, when Mr. G. Joseph Tauro, Atty. assumed the task of “watching the Bills in the Legislature” also for $50.00.”

Sixty six years later, MANA is still committed to influencing state policy to advance the profession of CRNA’s collectively and to supporting its members individually. You’ve elected a competent team to run the association, but what can you do individually to support their efforts? Besides involvement in the numerous committees of MANA, you can support the MANA Political Action Committee (PAC). PACs are one tool for creating opportunity for MANA to be visible to lawmakers. PACs are not only a legal entity; they are a critically important entity for lawmakers and associations. Running for elected office is very difficult and getting your name and positions out to voters is time consuming and expensive. Conversely, getting an opportunity to support those lawmakers who are interested in advancing your political agenda is an essential tool for MANA’s success. Collectively pooling your finances makes it clear that this is a group benefit, not solely the generosity of a handful of individual members.

The MANA PAC is well established, but would benefit from the membership’s renewed personal and financial sustenance. A robust committee of members to help evaluate which lawmakers to support is ideal. Please consider joining the PAC team. This is not a huge time commitment, but it is such an important contribution to your professional association’s health and success.

The PAC determines the budget, how to sustain and raise money, which candidates to support, and which events to

attend. PACs are a normal course of the business of political life and you can be assured that those who oppose your policy views utilize their PACs to create every opportunity to be visible and share their message. The object of the PAC is to support lawmakers who support MANA’s policy positions, so another way you can support MANA is to individually contribute to the PAC. MANA’s newly developed web site at: www.MASSCRNA.com has a donation button where you can efficiently just click the link and use your personal credit card to donate. You can also choose to have your donation made in split payments or monthly installments. Attending PAC fundraisers and lending your support is one initial way you can invest in the future of your professional practice.

Whether you like politics or not, MANA does have a policy agenda and it is affected by politics. Your best chances of moving CRNA practice forward still remains with the association and its member’s involvement in both politics and policy. Supporting the PAC is easy and effective. Please donate your time and your money! To get involved this year, contact President Tony Craig at: ajc153@gmail.com

Craven & Ober Policy Strategists, LLC is a full service Massachusetts-based government relations firm dedicated to credible, assertive advocacy and to the dissemination of reliable public policy information.

MANA PAC: A Useful Tool for Your Policy AgendaBy Craven & Ober Policy Strategists, LLC

MANA’s Lobbyists, Stacey Ober and Glory Craven

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AANA MID-YEAR ASSEMBLY

<< MANA representatives prepare for visits to the Hill. From left to right, Rachel Ritter, SRNA, Trudy Pierce, CRNA, Sarah Braunschweiger, SRNA, MANA’s President-Elect, Donnell Carter, CRNA, MANA’s Federal Political Director, Caroline Haas, CRNA, David MacDonald, SRNA and MANA’s President, Tony Craig, CRNA

Steve Alves, CRNA, PhD, Nurse Anesthesia Program Coordinator at Northeastern University and MANA’s Treasurer Bob Gauvin, CRNA at the Mid-Year Assembly PAC event. >>

<< Sarah Braunschweiger, SRNA, Donnell Carter, CRNA and MANA’s President Elect, Caroline Haas, CRNA and MANA’s FPD.

Sarah Braunschweiger, SRNA, MANA’s President Tony Craig, CRNA, Congressman Jim McGovern, and Rachel Ritter, SRNA >>

September 2012 | 5

T he AANA Mid-Year Assembly presented us with a fantastic opportunity to begin our involvement in advocating for nurse anesthesia. The first two days were comprised of educational seminars. The first day started

with a presentation by Bradford Fitch, President and CEO of the Congressional Management Foundation. It was an energizing way to start the experience. Fitch taught us methods of effective lobbying with contagious enthusiasm, humor, and passion. He reminded us that our congressmen are very busy, averaging thirteen meetings a day and that they are hard working people who really want to make a difference. Frank Purcell, the AANA Senior Director of Federal Government Affairs, then spoke about our current legislative priorities. We attended a special student and first-timer session that informed us about general guidelines for visiting Capitol Hill. The AANA discussed new doctorate education standards, which eliminated some requirements, added pain management numbers, and invited lots of input from the AANA community.

In addition to the seminars, we attended several events. First, a wonderful time was had by all at the PAC dinner and silent auction, an “Affair of State.” The Hay Adams Hotel offered a splendid backdrop with a bird’s-eye view of the White House and Washington Monument. Additionally, we had the opportunity to honor the passing of Ira Gunn at Arlington Cemetery. Gunn was an extraordinary leader in nurse anesthesia who held numerous offices, received prestigious awards for her accomplishments, and was a tireless advocate for nurse anesthetists. It was a privilege to be present at her memorial service.

We enjoyed meeting our fellow students and talking to them about issues in their respective states. It was fascinating to branch out and expand our horizons. We were so impressed by Joe Rodriguez, the student representative for the CRNA-PAC, who coordinated the 2012 CRNA-PAC Student Coffee Challenge. Students were rewarded with a Starbucks gift card by donating to the CRNA-PAC and meeting key members of the AANA. What a great way to grab students’ interest—thanks Joe!

After the seminars and momentous events, we prepared for our Capitol Hill visits. We met with the MANA board members to discuss the meetings strategies. This year we were able to secure meetings with all fourteen congressmen or their legislative assistants. During our meetings, we were fortunate to meet Senator Scott Brown, Representative Jim McGovern, and Representative William Keating. As we visited their offices, we could see evidence of all the causes they fought for. It was great to watch the MANA members in action on Capitol Hill. They were effective, well spoken, and seemed to impress the various congressional aides. It was great to learn from the MANA board members, raise awareness, and participate in our democracy.

Thanks to everyone in MANA who encouraged us to participate and for your patient guidance and instruction. We had a great time and are already looking forward to next year! Special thanks to Caroline Haas, Tony Craig, Bob Gauvin, Stacey Ober, Donnell Carter, Trish Kelley and Trudy Pierce.

AANA Mid-Year AssemblyBy Sarah Braunschweiger, SRNA, David MacDonald, SRNA and Rachel Ritter, SRNA

PLEASE JOIN US FOR MANA’S ANNUAL MEETING!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13, 20124:00 PM — 5:30 PM

MARRIOTT HOTEL, PROVIDENCE, RI(in conjunction with the NEANA Fall Meeting)

Drinks, hors d’oeuvres and MANA updates!

New Bedford, MA

2013 Ophthalmic Block Hands-On Workshop

January 26-27, 2013 | New Bedford, MAFaculty: Randy Harvey, BS, RRT, CRNA

Chief of Anesthesia and Department ManagerFlorida Eye Clinic Ambulatory Surgery Center

Altamonte Springs, Florida

Purpose:Due to the increasing volume of ophthalmic procedures being performed, the ophthalmologists are now requesting anesthesia professionals provide this service.

Objectives:This course is designed to provide the didactics of phapharmacology, toxicity, anatomy, physiology, techniques, management, and complications of ophthalmic regional blocks. by way of individual “hands-on” practice under the guidance of a qualified instructor, using an anatomical model, the participant will become familiar with the actual techniques of performing the ophthalmic block techniques.

AccAccreditation:

AANA approved for 13 CEC Code #1026088 Expiration Date 11/4/2012

Location:Waypoint Event Center New Bedford, MA 02740

Historic Downtown

For More Information and Registration:

www.AnesProf.com/EyeBlocksRegistration Closes on 12/28/12 | Limited Space!

Accomodations:Fairfield Inn & Suites185 MacArthur Drive

It is crucial to have an avenue to pick MANA officers who will do a good job representing Massachusetts CRNAs. The MANA Nominating Committee looks for and recruits CRNAs with the necessary experience and leadership skills to represent us. In Massachusetts, we are fortunate enough to have a large number of practicing CRNAs who work in various specialty areas, who represent us at the state and national levels.

We are proud to say that in the last two years there have been contested ballots. This is so, because of the benefit of having an active Nominating Committee, as well as more Massachusetts CRNAs who want to become active in MANA and have a voice in the direction our profession takes.

In addition to the President-Elect and Secretary in even years, Treasurer in odd years, there are three director positions every year out of six that need to be filled. These alternate every year to allow new board members to learn from experienced board members. Sometimes a candidate may be interested in serving for another term, but with a contested ballot the individual could be voted out by another candidate. We strongly encourage contested ballots! The positions we recruit for include, board of directors, treasurer, secretary, president-elect, president. Prior to running for president elect or president, it is necessary to have been in a board of director’s position. Look on the MANA web site, www.masscrna.com for more information about MANA.

If you are considering becoming active in MANA, please let us know. Your input is important. There are many seasoned CRNAs who can help, should you have questions about the process of getting involved in MANA.

Janice Carey MSNA CRNAMANA Nominating Committee Chairperson, Member

NOMINATING COMMITTEE BRIEF

September 2012 | 7

<< MANA’s Treasurer, Bob Gauvin, with AANA’s newly elected President, Janice Izlar at AANA’s 2012 Annual Meeting in San Francisco

AANA ANNUAL MEETING 2012

MANA Students at 2012 AANA Annual Meeting >>

<< Left to right, President Tony Craig, President Elect, Donnell Carter and Treasurer, Bob Gauvin at AANA 2012 Annual Meeting

www.AnesProf.com/careers

Competitive Compensation 

Diverse Environments

Benefits Available

Lifestyle Positions

You choose what's best for you!

Find out why more CRNAs & MDsare choosing APRO:

Anesthesia Professionals is a private group practice seeking CRNAs for multiple opportunities.

Visit our website for more details!

Greater Boston SouthCoast Rhode Island

September 2012 | 9

Our PAC needs your support! You can donate your time or dollars.

NEW! MANA members, our new web site allows you the ability to have your PAC donations automatically withdrawn from your bank account on a monthly basis! You can also split your donation over several months or make a onetime donation!

Visit the PAC page on our web site, www.masscrna.com for more information and to donate!

The MANA PAC committee is looking for volunteers to help with fundraisers and PAC events! Please let MANA President, Tony Craig, ajc153@gmail.com know if you would be interested in serving on our PAC committee!

MANA MEMBERS

WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR RECENT PAC DONORS:

PLATINUM ($250 +)Joyce Marcelonis

GOLD ($100 – $249)Rhonda BrassilDonnell CarterFlorence EganPatricia FiskJames Reed

Ann SchwartzLinda StewartElaine Sullivan

Nancy Woitkoski

SILVER ($50 – $99)Andrea DappPatricia KelleyLinda Kovitch

BRONZE (UNDER $50)Brian Campbell

Carol DavisSteffanie Sinclair

Joan Slade

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The Vermont Association of Nurse Anesthetists is

hosting the NEANA Fall 2013 Conference at the Woodstock Inn & Resort.

OCTOBER 25 – 27, 2013

SAVE THE DATE!

JANUARY 19, 2013

MANA Celebrates NNAW (National Nurse Anesthetists Week)Wachusett MountainPrinceton, MACE Education and Fun for you and your family!

Watch the MANA web site, www.masscrna.com and your e-mail for more information.

September 2012 | 11

FRIDAY OCTOBER 12th

5:00 PM RIANA Business Meeting & Elections

Appetizers! Cash Bar! Please Join Us!

SATURDAY OCTOBER 13th

0645 – 0715 Registration, Continental Breakfast

0715 – 0730 Welcome, Opening Remarks Laura Bassi, MSN, CRNA President Rhode Island Association

Nurse Anesthetists

0730 – 0830 OR Safety During MAC Anesthesia Dr. Timothy Connelly, DO

0830 – 0930 Military Anesthesia Col. Edward Cyr USA-Ret, MSN,

NP, CRNA

0930 – 0945 Break, Exhibits

0945 – 1045 Similarities Between Red Wine and Red Cells Dr. Joseph Sweeney, MD

1045 – 1145 Post-op Cognitive Dysfunction Linda Kovitch, CRNA, RRT, MSN

1145 – 1315 Lunch, NEANA Meeting

1315 – 1415 Updates on Transfusion Practice Connie Calvin, PhD, CRNA, APRN

1415 – 1445 Break, Exhibits

1445 – 1545 Neurological protection for Intracranial Aneurysm Surgery Jon Jordon, MSNA, CRNA

SUNDAY OCTOBER 14th

0700 – 0745 Registration, Continental Breakfast

0745 – 0800 Announcements

0800 – 0900 Noise in the OR Lisa Hogan, CRNA, DNP

0900 – 1000 Ketamine Revisited Judy Thompson, CRNA, DNAP,

APRN

1000 – 1015 Break, Exhibits

1015 – 1115 Risk Management Strategies to Reduce Anesthetic Related Litigation

Mary Ellen Erlandson, Esq.

1115 – 1215 Understanding Legal Tools: The Key to Prevention and Tax Reduction Dan McNuff, BS

1215 Adjourn

NEANA FALL MEETINGOCTOBER 13 – 14, 2012Marriott Hotel, Providence, RI

To make hotel reservations, please call 1-401-272-2400 or 1-866-807-2171Please request the Rhode Island Association of Nurse Anesthetist rate$159.00 single/double. All Room Reservations must be made by September 21st.

Discounted registration pricing ends October 5th.

For more information including the schedule and a registration brochure, visit www.RICRNAS.com

MANA’s PR Committee Chair, Trisha Kelley, CRNA, Congressman Bill Keating, Derek Evans, CRNA and David MacDonald, SRNA - AANA Mid-Year Assembly Capitol Hill visit.

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