H199 Summary - Surgical Technology Standards

• Establishes qualification standards for surgical technologists employed or contracted by hospitals and ambulatory surgical facilities in North Carolina, effective January 1, 2018.

• Requires surgical technologists to meet at least one qualification: hold Certified Surgical Technologist credential from accredited program, complete military/federal health service training, be employed in the field on December 31, 2017 or during the prior two years, or work for federal government.

• Allows a 12-month probationary period for newly-graduated surgical technologists, after which they must obtain and maintain CST certification to continue employment.

• Requires surgical technologists without CST certification to complete 15 hours of continuing education annually approved by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.

• Permits facilities to employ unqualified individuals only after making documented diligent efforts to hire qualified surgical technologists, with violations subject to adverse action by the Department of Health and Human Services.