Surgical techs play a critical role in healthcare, assisting surgeons during procedures and ensuring that the operating room (OR) runs smoothly. According to the BLS, as the demand for skilled surgical technologists rises, more people are turning to online courses to pursue this rewarding career. However, online Surgical Tech programs present several challenges, and many might not fully prepare students for the realities of this fast-paced, clinical profession. In this article, we will explore the key problems associated with surgical tech programs online and highlight a new approach that addresses these shortcomings.
Problem 1: Lack of Hands-On Experience
One of the most significant challenges with online surgical tech programs is the lack of hands-on experience. Surgical techs are responsible for tasks such as sterilizing equipment, preparing the OR, and assisting surgeons during procedures, which require practical, clinical experience.
Unfortunately, most online programs offer only theoretical education, leaving students without the crucial clinical practice needed to perform these tasks in real-life scenarios. Without sufficient hands-on training, students may struggle to transition from the classroom to the operating room.
The Importance of Clinical Practice
In the healthcare field, particularly in surgical environments, practical experience is paramount. Surgical technologists must be able to anticipate the needs of the surgeon, manage surgical instruments, and maintain a sterile environment—all skills that require practice in a live clinical setting.
While an online course can teach students the theoretical aspects of sterilization and OR protocols, it is the hands-on application of these concepts that solidifies learning. An online-only program can leave aspiring surgical techs underprepared and lacking confidence when entering the workforce.
The Solution: Externships and Internships
To mitigate the lack of clinical experience, students should seek surgical tech programs that include an externship or internship component. These opportunities allow students to work in a healthcare facility for a few weeks, gaining real-world experience under the supervision of experienced professionals.
When considering an online surgical tech program, it’s critical to verify that the course offers an externship, as this experience is often a key requirement for job placement. Without it, students may face difficulties securing employment.
Problem 2: Lack of Accredited University Certification
Another drawback of many online surgical tech programs is the lack of a university-issued certificate. In healthcare, certifications from accredited institutions hold significant value. Top doctors, surgeons, and healthcare professionals often come from well-known universities, and the same is true for surgical technologists. A surgical tech certificate from a reputable university can bolster your resume and increase your chances of getting hired.
The Value of Accreditation in Healthcare
Accreditation ensures that the educational program meets the necessary standards of quality and rigor required in healthcare. Employers, particularly in hospitals and surgical centers, prefer candidates who have undergone accredited training, as it assures them that the individual has received a comprehensive and standardized education.
Many online programs, however, do not offer university-backed certification. This can put graduates at a disadvantage when applying for jobs, as employers may question the credibility of their training. Surgical techs who graduate from unaccredited programs may struggle to compete with candidates who hold certificates from established institutions.
The Solution: Seek Accredited Programs
To avoid this issue, aspiring surgical techs should carefully research online programs to ensure they offer accredited university certificates. This will not only make the job search easier but also provide greater long-term career security. Graduating with a respected surgical technologist certification can help surgical technologists stand out in a competitive job market.
Problem 3: High Costs of Online Programs
Another common issue with online surgical tech programs is the cost. Surprisingly, some online courses charge upwards of $5,000 or more for training. This is a steep price, especially considering that online education typically lacks the overhead costs associated with traditional in-person instruction, such as campus facilities and faculty salaries.
Why High Costs Are Unjustified
Online programs often rely on pre-recorded lectures, digital textbooks, and online assessments, all of which are less expensive to produce and maintain than in-person teaching. Yet, many students find themselves paying exorbitant fees without receiving the comprehensive support and resources that justify such a high price tag.
Additionally, these expensive programs may still lack critical components such as hands-on training and accredited certification, leaving students with a hefty bill and inadequate preparation for the workforce. It’s essential for students to carefully weigh the value they are receiving against the cost of the program.
The Solution: Affordable, Comprehensive Programs
Students should look for programs that offer affordable tuition without compromising on quality. The ideal program should not only provide online coursework but also include an externship and a university certificate. These features ensure that students receive the complete education they need to succeed as surgical techs without paying excessive fees.
A New Approach: The Preppy Solution
Recognizing the limitations of traditional online surgical tech programs, new approaches are emerging to better meet the needs of students. One such example is Preppy, a revolutionary new model designed to address the common problems of online training and provide a more well-rounded education.
What Is the Preppy Approach?
The Preppy approach offers online surgical tech training for under $2,000, making it significantly more affordable than many other programs. Importantly, it includes an externship component, allowing students to gain hands-on clinical experience in a healthcare facility. This experience is invaluable in helping students bridge the gap between theory and practice.
Additionally, Preppy offers a university-backed certificate upon completion of the program, giving graduates the credentials they need to stand out to employers. This combination of affordability, practical training, and accreditation provides a comprehensive solution for students who want to pursue a career as a surgical technologist.
Why It Works
The Preppy approach works because it addresses the key issues that most online surgical tech programs fail to solve:
- Clinical Experience: Students receive the hands-on training they need to feel confident in their abilities and meet employer expectations.
- Accredited Certification: The university-backed certificate gives students credibility in the job market.
- Affordability: With a price tag under $2,000, the program is accessible to more students without sacrificing quality.
Conclusion: Choose Your Program Wisely
Becoming a surgical technologist is an exciting and rewarding career choice, but the path to getting there requires careful consideration. While online surgical tech programs offer flexibility and convenience, they often fall short in areas that are critical to career success, such as hands-on experience and accredited certification. Moreover, many online programs come with an unjustifiably high price tag.
If you are considering an online surgical tech program, be sure to do your research. Look for programs that include an externship, provide university-backed certification, and offer affordable tuition. Preppy is one example of how online education can be structured to provide a more complete and effective learning experience, helping students get job-ready in under six months without breaking the bank.
Also read: Surgical Tech Salary – How Much Can You Make?
About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, whose work on college affordability and accessibility has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek, Business Insider, American Express, AOL, MSN, Thrive Global, Reader’s Digest, Inside Higher Ed, Evolllution, EducationDive, and nearly 100 radio shows and podcasts.
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