Nevada’s First Anesthesiologist Assistant Training Program Opens

The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) applauds Nova Southeastern University (NSU) for opening Nevada’s first anesthesiologist assistant (AA) training program at its new regional campus in Henderson—expanding access to high-quality anesthesia education and helping address critical workforce challenges across the region. This milestone was made possible by legislation spearheaded by the Nevada State Society of Anesthesiologists and supported by the ASA, authorizing Certified Anesthesiologist Assistants (CAAs) to practice in the state.

NSU recently launched its Henderson campus, where it will offer a comprehensive, graduate-level AA program. The inaugural class of approximately 26 students is expected to begin training this summer, participating in a rigorous curriculum that integrates classroom instruction, advanced simulation training, and hands-on clinical experience.

The program is designed to prepare highly skilled CAAs to practice within the Anesthesia Care Team (ACT) model under the direction of anesthesiologists. Students will be trained to develop and implement anesthesia care plans, monitor patients, administer anesthesia, and deliver high-quality perioperative care through supervised clinical rotations. The launch of this program marks an important step in building a sustainable, in-state pipeline of well-trained clinicians to meet growing patient needs across Nevada and the surrounding region.

ASA supports initiatives that strengthen anesthesiologist-led, team-based care and expand the availability of qualified anesthesia professionals. Programs like the one in Henderson enhance the nation’s healthcare workforce while upholding the highest standards of patient safety and quality care.