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Surgical Technologist - CST

Surgical Technology has been taught in Bay County since 1997 through local hospitals.  In 2003, the first class was offered at Gulf Coast State College.

The program is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Programs (CAAHEP); email caahep@mcs.net; or website www.caahep.org; phone number 312.553.9355.

Graduates of this program are eligible to sit for the  certification examination offered by The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), https://www.nbstsa.org/.  Students passing this examination become a board certified professional surgical technologist with the ability to use their credentials in any state. 

The professional organization, Association of Surgical Technologists, www.ast.org, can be searched for more information regarding the continuing education or testing requirements to maintain the credentials as a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST).

Classes are informal and challenge each student to think critically.  Since each student is an individual with different learning styles, we offer important course material in a variety of ways to enhance retention.

Experience varies from classroom lecture, directed self study utilizing internet resources,  interactive group projects, discussion, oral presentations, homework assignments, computerized testing, mock surgery, skills lab performance, oral testing, and hands-on clinical experience.  Emphasis is also placed on core work ethics timeliness, proficiency, honesty and integrity related to professionalism in the
healthcare setting. 

Gulf Coast State College does not discriminate against any person in its programs, activities, policies or procedures on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, marital status, religion, age, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. All questions or inquiries regarding compliance with laws relating to non-discrimination and all complaints regarding sexual misconduct or discrimination, may be directed to Lee Wood, Executive Director, Human Resources/Title II/504/Title IX Coordinator and Employment Equity Officer, Gulf Coast State College, 5230 W. US Highway 98, Panama City, FL 32401.