VOLUNTEER with PANA
The Pennsylvania Association of Nurse Anesthetists (PANA) represents more than 3,700 certified registered nurse anesthetists and students across the commonwealth. Together, our collective voices can be a powerful tool. Each of you plays a vital role in informing others about what we do and advancing our profession. That’s especially so with members of the state legislature, who need to hear from constituents like you to ensure our shared policy priorities get the attention they deserve.
“Member engagement is absolutely critical. When PANA members take action, the issue becomes personal and it puts a face to our cause. That can make all the difference in the world and help us shape the debate over the issues that matter most to CRNAs and the patients we serve.”
--- PANA Past President, Derek Reckard
There are several ways that you can get involved with PANA:
Become a PANA Ambassador
PANA Ambassadors serve as advocates for the profession. Actions include sending correspondence to lawmakers or writing letters to the editor; visiting a new legislator’s district office; hosting an event with other CRNAs in the area to talk about important issues; serving as the hospital spokesperson who talks with other CRNAs in the break room or who will simply share information around the watercooler about issues PANA is managing; and much more.
Write or sign a letter to the editor
Letters to the editor are opportunities to voice your opinion in your local newspaper. Letters are typically under 250 words, but guidelines vary by paper. PANA will provide guidance on what to write and help you edit your letter so you can submit it to your local paper. Make your voice heard.
Contact your local legislator on the phone or with a written letter
There are 253 elected officials in the House and Senate. With the help of individual PANA members, our association can educate state legislators and their staff in a more meaningful way. You can do this any time with a phone call or letter. Lawmakers really do want to hear from their constituents. PANA is available to provide support and answer questions you may have about what to say or how to say it. View our talking points about the proposed Certified Anesthesiologist Assistants (CAA) legislation here.
Attend a rally and lobby day at the state capitol
Each year, CRNAs and SRNAs from all over the commonwealth travel to Harrisburg to meet with legislators. There is power in numbers! By showing up all at once, we have an opportunity to make our issues top of mind for elected officials and have a dialogue with them about our profession.