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Surgical Tech Programs in Oakland, California

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Becoming a Surgical Technologist in Oakland, California

Are you considering a career as a Surgical Technologist in Oakland, California? This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a Surgical Tech, also known as an Operating Room Technician. As a Surgical Tech, you’ll play a crucial role in the operating room, assisting surgeons and ensuring that procedures run smoothly. There are various educational paths to becoming a Surgical Tech, including earning an associate degree or a certificate from accredited programs.

About Oakland

Oakland, California, is a bustling city located on the east side of the San Francisco Bay. Known for its diverse culture, historic landmarks, and thriving arts scene, Oakland offers a unique blend of urban and natural attractions. From the scenic views of Lake Merritt to the historic Fox Theater, Oakland is a city rich in history and opportunity. For more information about the city, visit the City of Oakland’s official website.

Surgical Tech Training Programs in Oakland, California

If you’re looking to pursue a career as a Surgical Technologist in Oakland, several local schools offer accredited programs:

  1. Contra Costa Medical Career College
    Located just outside Oakland in Antioch, this college offers an Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology. The program includes comprehensive coursework in anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology, along with clinical experience. Learn more about their program.

  2. Merritt College
    Situated in the Oakland Hills neighborhood, Merritt College provides a Surgical Technology program that prepares students for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam. The program emphasizes hands-on training and clinical practicums. Explore Merritt College’s program.

  3. Berkeley City College
    Just a short drive from Oakland, Berkeley City College offers courses in surgical technology as part of its health sciences curriculum. The college focuses on providing students with the skills needed for entry-level positions in the field. Visit Berkeley City College’s website.

Surgical Tech Employment Opportunities in Oakland

Oakland is home to several major healthcare facilities that employ Surgical Technologists:

  1. Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center
    Located in the Temescal neighborhood, this facility is part of the renowned Kaiser Permanente network. It offers a range of employment opportunities for Surgical Techs. Check their career page.

  2. Alta Bates Summit Medical Center
    Situated in the Pill Hill neighborhood, this hospital is known for its comprehensive healthcare services and employs a significant number of Surgical Technologists. Explore job opportunities at Alta Bates.

  3. Highland Hospital
    As part of the Alameda Health System, Highland Hospital in the San Antonio neighborhood provides a variety of surgical services and is a key employer of Surgical Techs. Visit their employment page.

Prerequisites for Surgical Tech Programs

To enroll in a Surgical Tech program in Oakland, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs may require entrance exams, such as the HESI Admission Assessment (A2) with Critical Thinking. Additionally, prerequisite courses like microbiology and human anatomy may be necessary.

Surgical Tech Certification Requirements

Certification is a vital step for career advancement. Completing a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) makes you eligible to take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam, administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). The National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) also offers certification options.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Surgical Technologist in Oakland, California, is a rewarding journey. With the right education and certification, you can join a field that is both challenging and fulfilling. Reach out to a local school today to learn more about their programs and take the first step toward your new career.

For more information on the job outlook for Surgical Technologists, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.