Oregon Governor Signs Law Prohibiting Nurse Anesthetists from Misappropriating Anesthesiologist Title

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek signed into law House Bill 3425, which directly prohibits nurse anesthetists from using the title “anesthesiologist.” The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) partnered with the Oregon Society of Anesthesiologists (OSA) to amend earlier drafts so that the final law now states “a certified registered nurse anesthetist may not use the title 'anesthesiologist'” and defines an “anesthesiologist” as a physician. The new law provides some of the strongest and most clear protection of the “anesthesiologist” title. 

Clarity about an anesthesiologist’s or nonphysician anesthetist’s true education and training is crucial in the medical specialty of anesthesiology. Oregon’s new law, which becomes effective on January 1, 2024, allows for the clear identification of the type, qualifications, and educational background of anesthesiologists and nonphysician anesthetists, which is critical to patient consent and patient safety. ASA congratulates the Oregon Legislature and Governor Kotek for prioritizing patients and ensuring the public is appropriately equipped with the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision about their anesthesia care.