Meet an AMSURG CRNA: Eric Bartley, CRNA

For Eric Bartley, CRNA, the path to anesthesia began with a chance encounter in the ICU. Early in his nursing career, a CRNA handed off a critically ill post-surgical patient and invited Bartley to spend a day shadowing in the operating room. Seeing the depth of responsibility and expertise involved in anesthesia care sparked a new career goal.

Achieving that goal required determination. With a young family at home, Bartley spent six years returning to school and planning for the future before entering a CRNA program at age 40. He describes it as the hardest challenge of his life, balancing family responsibilities, financial sacrifices and the pressure to succeed.

“I took out a home equity loan to pay for the house payment for two years while I was in the program, all this at 40 years old,” Bartley shared. “It was the hardest thing I had ever done in my life, knowing that if I failed, it would all have been for nothing.”

Now secure in his practice as a CRNA, Bartley said he believes collaboration is at the heart of safe, high-quality patient care. He values working closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses and OR staff to ensure every patient receives the best possible care.

“Collaborating is so important, not only for the patient’s welfare, but for my peace of mind,” Bartley said. “I don’t like confrontation, but I’m not afraid to put the patient’s safety and well-being above other interests. Finding common ground is essential for making all voices heard.”

Eric also emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning, staying current through conferences, professional publications, and a strong network of fellow CRNAs who share insights and experiences from the field.

After nearly 11 years in hospitals managing complex cases and extensive call schedules, Eric found the ideal balance at Redding Endoscopy.

“Coming to Redding Endoscopy allowed me to continue to work hard but also to enjoy life at the same time,” Bartley said. “I’m home every night, weekend and holiday, allowing more family time and me time.”

Bartley also credits AMSURG’s supportive culture, responsiveness and commitment to quality anesthesia services as key reasons he plans to finish his career with the organization.

“AMSURG administration has been the easiest to work with in my 23 years of practice,” Bartley said. “(AMSURG) has been very accommodating with time off when needed and supplying equipment that is necessary to provide quality anesthesia. I will finish my career as an AMSURG provider, and I’m a proud AMSURG supporter.”

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