Surgical technologists, also known as operating room technicians, play a vital role in the healthcare industry. They work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses to ensure that surgical procedures are carried out safely and efficiently. If you're interested in pursuing a career in this field, Baltimore offers several surgical tech programs that can provide you with the necessary education and training.
What is a Surgical Technologist?
A surgical technologist is a healthcare professional who is responsible for preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and assisting surgeons and other medical staff during surgical procedures. They must have a strong understanding of surgical procedures, patient care, and infection control. Surgical technologists work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities, and may specialize in specific areas such as orthopedic or cardiovascular surgery.
Surgical Tech Programs in Baltimore
Baltimore is home to several colleges and universities that offer surgical tech programs. Here are a few options to consider:
- Community College of Baltimore County: The Community College of Baltimore County offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Surgical Technology. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and prepares students for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam.
- Baltimore City Community College: Baltimore City Community College offers a Certificate program in Surgical Technology. The program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to become a surgical technologist, and includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, and surgical procedures.
- University of Maryland Baltimore: The University of Maryland Baltimore offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Surgical Technology. The program is accredited by CAAHEP and prepares students for the CST exam.
Program Requirements
To be eligible for a surgical tech program in Baltimore, you typically need to meet the following requirements:
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent to apply for a surgical tech program.
- Prerequisite Courses: Some programs may require you to complete prerequisite courses in subjects such as anatomy, physiology, and biology.
- Background Check: You may be required to undergo a background check before starting a surgical tech program.
- Immunizations: You may be required to provide proof of immunizations, such as Hepatitis B and flu shots.
Career Outlook for Surgical Technologists
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of surgical technologists is projected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual salary for surgical technologists in the United States is $49,710, although salaries can vary depending on location, experience, and industry.
Job Opportunities in Baltimore
Baltimore has several hospitals and healthcare facilities that employ surgical technologists, including:
- Johns Hopkins Hospital: Johns Hopkins Hospital is one of the largest hospitals in the United States and employs several surgical technologists.
- University of Maryland Medical Center: The University of Maryland Medical Center is a major teaching hospital that employs surgical technologists.
- MedStar Health: MedStar Health is a large healthcare system that operates several hospitals in the Baltimore area, including MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center and MedStar Harbor Hospital.
Gallery of Surgical Technologist Careers
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to surgical tech programs in Baltimore. If you're interested in pursuing a career in this field, we encourage you to research the programs listed above and reach out to them for more information.
What is the average salary for a surgical technologist in Baltimore?
+The average salary for a surgical technologist in Baltimore is around $50,000 per year, although salaries can vary depending on experience and industry.
What are the requirements for a surgical tech program in Baltimore?
+Typically, you need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete prerequisite courses in subjects such as anatomy and physiology, and undergo a background check.
How long does it take to complete a surgical tech program in Baltimore?
+Typically, a surgical tech program in Baltimore takes around 2 years to complete, although some programs may be shorter or longer.