Curious about what it truly means to be a Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant (CAA)? You're in the right place! From nearly two decades of experience, I share a clear and comprehensive breakdown of the CAA profession. Think of me as your older sister or best friend, guiding you step-by-step through the essentials—from what CAAs actually do to how much money we make, no topic is off limits. Whether you're an aspiring AA student or simply exploring a career in medicine, this guide equips you with the insights you need to understand the CAA profession.

In Part 3 I break down some universally misunderstood concepts pertaining to CAA practice regulations such as licensure vs. delegatory authority, medical direction vs. medical supervision, and why CAA state licensure does not automatically guarantee state practice. This is a critical episode no matter where you are in your CAA journey, and one that helped me answer some long considered questions. 

Resources Mentioned:

• S3 E46  Transatlantic Tales of a Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant ft. Mark Leonard, CAA
• S3 E36 [PROCESS] Lindsey Diaz, CAA on fear, anger and her right to practice in New Mexico
• S3 E35 [PROCESS] The Stars Align in Nevada ft. CAAs Stephanie Zunini, Jada Wabanimkee and Joey Parrish
• S4 E56 [PROCESS] Breaking Barriers in The Evergreen State ft. Sarah Brown, CAA
• States Can CAA's Work @anesthesiasal
• ASA statement on medical direction vs. supervision
• ASA statement on anesthesia care team
• AAAA statement on licensure vs. delegatory authority
• Michigan's delegatory authority statute

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Pre-AA Matters is a 12-week program designed to teach you the inner skills of being a CAA, and help you thrive in AA school. You’ll learn how to regulate your stress, navigate setbacks, communicate with confidence, and build the emotional resilience that will carry you from Pre-AA → CAA.

Our January 2026 cohorts are enrolling now. Learn More

Use code AAPODCAST50 for $50 off registration.

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