More than 6,400 CRNAs work throughout Florida, each with eight to ten years of healthcare and anesthesia education, more than 12,000 hours of clinical training, and national board certification. At a minimum, three other healthcare professionals work literally side by side during surgery. During surgery, a CRNA is laser-focused on the patient, making tiny adjustments as needed to ensure a safe and successful outcome. This not only increases delays and complications, but it also worsens an already critical shortage of healthcare professionals especially in rural areas. All members of the healthcare team collaborate and work together to achieve the optimal outcome for the patient.