New Surgical Technology Program Offered at Lackawanna College’s Towanda Center

Lackawanna College’s Towanda Center has introduced a Surgical Technology Program, a new field of study that began with the start of the spring semester 2007. The Associate Degree program is being offered in cooperation with the Robert Packer Hospital, Corning Hospital, and St. Joseph’s Hospital in Elmira, NY.

Surgical Technologists are a vital part of the team in medical operating rooms. They are responsible for maintaining a sterile environment, preparing equipment and instruments, and providing general patient support before, during and after surgery. During procedures, they may operate suction machines, sterilizers, diagnostic equipment and room lighting. In addition, they prepare sterile dressings for patients to wear after surgery.

Lackawanna College’s program consists of 68 credits leading to an associate degree. Courses combine academic and hands-on education and cover such areas as anatomy, medical terminology, sterilization techniques and surgical procedures. Lab and clinical assignments are required to complete the program. Graduates may sit for the national registry examination to be accredited as Certified Surgical Technologist (CST). Average salaries for CST’s are in the $30,000+ range.

The program is currently being offered only at Lackawanna’s Towanda Center. The second class of 11 students began their coursework in January 2008. Applications will be accepted for classes that will begin in the Fall semester. Enrollment is limited. Financial aid is available for to assist students with participation in this degree program.

Anne Osborn, CST of Sayre is serving as Director of the Program. A highly experienced Surgical Technologist, she has served in the operating room at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Elmira, NY since 1983. Ms. Osborn earned her diploma in Surgical Technology from the Williamsport Community College in 1982. She is a member of the Association of Surgical Technologists.

Lackawanna College has created a number of health and medical studies programs in the past few years. Vascular Technology, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Paramedic Training, Nurse Aide and Phlelbotomy are offered at various college locations. The Surgical Technology Program is the first such course at the Towanda Center. The program has been in the works for several years. Originally planned to be introduced in Scranton, the program was moved to Towanda because of the active interest and support of the Robert Packer Hospital and the Guthrie Clinic. “The commitment of these institutions to improve the well being of residents of the Northern Tier was extremely impressive and highly persuasive,” said Ann Marie Stelma, Ph.D., Lackawanna’s Vice President of Continuing Education who guided the program’s creation. “They wanted the program in their region and have made certain that it was possible.”

Lackawanna College has received final accreditation from the Committee on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) for the new major. Headquartered in Colorado, CAAHEP accredits educational programs that prepare health professionals in 21 different disciplinary areas. Accreditation protects the student and the public and also ensures a supply of the most qualified health care professionals.

“The surgical technology program represents an exciting opportunity for individuals wishing to acquire new skills to enter a secure and rewarding career path,” said Joyce Kerrick, Director of the Towanda Center. “This course provides another way for the Towanda Center to serve our community.”