Publication of the Interim Anaesthesia Associate Scope of Practice 2024

Following consultation with our members and other stakeholders we have published the Interim AA Scope of Practice 2024, which is endorsed by the Association of Anaesthetists.  

The scope of practice provides a safe and clear framework for AAs to contribute to the provision of high-quality anaesthetic care for patients. It presents clearly defined phases of practice from qualification onwards, including the levels of supervision required.  

We expect all departments who train and employ AAs in the UK to implement this scope of practice within the timeline outlined in the document. We believe it is a positive development in safeguarding standards of care for the benefit of patients, the public and our members.  

Regulation of AAs has now begun, and we are working with the GMC to ensure the AA curriculum aligns as closely as possible with the new scope of practice.  

Consultation responses

Alongside the scope of practice, we have published a transparent account of its development, including a list of the changes made in response to the consultation. We have also published Research by Design’s independent report of our member consultation and responses received from organisations (where they have given us permission to do so).  

Independent review 

We will review the AA scope of practice in 2025 following completion of the independent review of Physician and Anaesthesia Associate Professions commissioned by the Government and led by Professor Gillian Leng. For that reason, the scope of practice is presented as an interim document.  

In light of the independent review, our request for a pause in recruitment of new student AAs remains in place at least until the review has been completed and Council has had the opportunity to review Professor Leng’s report and recommendations.  

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the development of the AA Scope of Practice and responded to our consultation.