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  • Rooted in Patient Care

    During World War II, the need for perioperative personnel was overwhelming. The role of the surgical technologist was born and evolved into a separate allied health field. Surgical technologists serve as an integral part of the surgical team providing surgical care to patients. Surgical technologists work under the supervision of a surgeon to facilitate the safe and effective conduct of surgical procedures. 

  • Our Organization

    The Association of Surgical Technologists was established in 1969 by members of the American College of Surgeons (ACS), the American Hospital Association (AHA), and the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN). Today, surgical technologists are working in one of the fastest growing professions in the country. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the surgical technology profession will grow faster than the average of all other occupations through the year 2030, and it is anticipated that the volume of surgery will increase exponentially due to the expanding senior population. As the oldest and most widely recognized professional organization for surgical technologists, AST's primary purpose is to ensure that surgical technologists have the knowledge and skills to administer patient care of the highest quality. 

    AST, the only national organization that represents more than 80,000 surgical technologists, is governed by an 11-member Board of Directors. On the local level, 50 formed state assemblies address member concerns and issues.

    What We Do

    Certified Surgical Technologist Definition

    Surgical Technologist Job Description

    Surgical Assistant Job Description

    CSPS Surgical Team Member Role, Partner Organizations and Credentials

    Our Foundational Documents

    AST Bylaws

    AST Code of Ethics

    AST Professional Code of Conduct

    Foundation Principles of Surgical Technology

    AST's Statement on Diversity, Equality and Inclusion

    The Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) is committed to the diversity, equality and inclusion in the workplace and throughout the surgical technology profession. The AST Board of Directors acknowledges and affirms our commitment to uphold the association’s code of ethics: to be allies and advocates for all people regardless of skin color, gender, gender identity and gender expression, ethnic origins, or religious beliefs.

    We believe all individuals should be treated equally without disparity or discrimination, and we support the expression of diverse opinions and perspectives, which help to initiative change. It is through shared discussions and unique experiences that we use diversity to create impactful and meaningful practices, polices and principles that protect our patients and our members.

    AST remains dedicated to ensuring our organization has representation that reflects our patients and our membership. As surgical technologists, we must advocate for the safety of our patients and our fellow citizens.