NC H468

Establishes qualification standards for surgical technologists employed or contracted by hospitals and ambulatory surgical facilities, requiring accredited certification, military training, or documented prior employment as of December 31, 2021.

Allows a 12-month probationary period for newly certified technologists to practice before obtaining required credentials, after which continued employment requires official credential documentation.

Requires certified surgical technologists to maintain continuing education per their credentialing organization's standards, and non-certified technologists to complete 30 hours of relevant continuing education every two years.

Permits exceptions for unqualified technologists only when facilities demonstrate diligent recruitment efforts, document such efforts, and ensure non-certified employees comply with continuing education requirements.

Becomes effective January 1, 2022, with the Department of Health and Human Services authorized to take adverse action against non-compliant hospitals and ambulatory surgical facilities.