Message from President

Alaskan Nurse Anesthetists,

I am the 2017-2018 president. I have worked in Fairbanks for almost six years. I graduated in 2011 and was encouraged to participate in state association activities throughout school. At my first state meeting in 2013 Jeff Worrell said to me, after I was done explaining how inarticulate I am, CRNAs are nevertheless their own best spokesmen for their practice. Whatever doubts I had then have completely disappeared, not about how inarticulate I am, but how no one knows more about the practice of CRNAs better than CRNAs. We have seen this year in our own state no shortage of opportunities to stand up to defend our practice and the cost effective care of patients in our own communities. Doubtful there will be more calls to write letters and call your legislators speaking out for your practice. The fight seems continuous and uphill but please don’t give up. You get lots of appeals for your time and money. Please carve out a little for your profession.

I’m wandering into national issues now but our national and state associations are supportive of each other. We have an excellent advocacy organization (PAC) that is incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. They believe in what we do. If you haven’t been to a national meeting consider attending one of three each year. We are reimbursed a set amount for up to four people to go. I have never been more inspired and impressed by the work of others than when I’m in the presence of a large group of anesthesia providers. If travel outside isn’t realistic for you, consider attending the state meeting in the Spring.

Please reach out to me if you have questions about anything you have heard or concerns you may have. My contact information is on the website.

Thank you for all you do,

Nicole Bonfoey