Surgical Tech Schools
Surgical Tech Programs in Long Beach, California
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Becoming a Surgical Technologist in Long Beach, California
If you’re considering a career as a Surgical Technologist in Long Beach, California, you’re embarking on a path that combines technical skill with compassionate patient care. Surgical Technologists, also known as Surgical Techs or Operating Room Technicians, play a crucial role in the operating room, assisting surgeons and ensuring procedures run smoothly. This guide will walk you through the steps to become a Surgical Tech in Long Beach, including education paths, certification requirements, and local employment opportunities.
About Long Beach
Long Beach, California, is a bustling coastal city known for its diverse culture and thriving arts scene. Located in Southern California, it boasts attractions like the Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific. For more information about the city, visit the official Long Beach website. With its proximity to Los Angeles and a strong healthcare sector, Long Beach offers numerous opportunities for aspiring Surgical Technologists.
Surgical Tech Training Programs in Long Beach, California
Long Beach is home to several reputable institutions offering Surgical Tech programs. Here are three options to consider:
- Long Beach City College (LBCC)
- Program: Surgical Technology Program
- Description: LBCC offers a comprehensive program that prepares students for entry-level positions as Surgical Technologists. The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice.
- Location: Lakewood Village
- Website: LBCC Surgical Technology Program
- American Career College (ACC) – Long Beach
- Program: Surgical Technology Program
- Description: ACC provides a robust program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), featuring over 540 hours of clinical practice.
- Location: Signal Hill
- Website: ACC Surgical Technology Program
- Concorde Career College – Garden Grove
- Program: Surgical Technology Program
- Description: Located a short drive from Long Beach, Concorde Career College offers a CAAHEP-accredited program designed to equip students with the skills needed for certification and employment.
- Location: Garden Grove (approximately 20 miles from Long Beach)
- Website: Concorde Career College Surgical Technology Program
Surgical Tech Employment Opportunities in Long Beach
Long Beach is home to several major healthcare facilities that employ Surgical Technologists. Here are some key employers:
- Long Beach Memorial Medical Center
- Description: As one of the largest hospitals in the region, Long Beach Memorial offers a wide range of services and is a major employer of Surgical Techs.
- Location: Memorial Heights
- Website: Long Beach Memorial Careers
- St. Mary Medical Center
- Description: Part of the Dignity Health network, St. Mary Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services and values the role of Surgical Technologists in patient care.
- Location: Downtown Long Beach
- Website: St. Mary Medical Center Careers
- Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach
- Description: Specializing in pediatric and women’s health, this hospital is a key employer for Surgical Techs interested in these fields.
- Location: Memorial Heights
- Website: Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Careers
Prerequisites for Surgical Tech Programs
To enroll in a Surgical Tech program, candidates typically need a high school diploma or GED. Some programs may require entrance exams, background checks, and proof of immunizations. It’s essential to check specific program prerequisites as they can vary.
Surgical Tech Certification Requirements
While California does not mandate certification for Surgical Technologists, obtaining certification can significantly enhance job prospects. The Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam, administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), is a popular choice. Alternatively, the Tech in Surgery – Certified (TS-C) exam offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) is another option.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Surgical Technologist in Long Beach, California, is an exciting opportunity to join a rewarding healthcare profession. With a variety of educational programs and employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to start your journey. Contact a school today to learn more about their programs and take the first step towards your new career.
For more information on the job outlook for Surgical Technologists, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.