The Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) Foundation has announced that it will provide a paid scholarship for a Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification holder and active member of HSPA to volunteer aboard Mercy Ships on a medical mission as an operating room sterile processing technician – a critical role that helps provide safe, high-quality care to patients in need.
The HSPA Foundation scholarship will provide up to $10,000 to cover one volunteer’s room and board, travel and other expenses, and also help offset the volunteer’s salary during the mission, which will take place in the West African country of Senegal from March 11 to April 22, 2023. This individual will be responsible for inspecting all surgical instruments for cleanliness, proper function and breakage; assembling and wrapping trays, supplies and single-pack instruments for sterilization; operating autoclaves safely and correctly; maintaining a clean work environment; and demonstrating clear communication and documentation skills. The volunteer will serve aboard Global Mercy, Mercy Ships’ new purpose-built vessel that spans more than 75,000 square feet and offers six operating rooms, 200 beds, a laboratory, general outpatient clinics, and eye and dental clinics. The ship can accommodate 950 people when docked, including 641 crew members, who are comprised of volunteers from all over the world. Mercy Ships has contributed to the sustainable development of local medical care throughout West and Central Africa for more than 30 years. The organization delivers free, world-class health care services, capacity building and sustainable development to those without access in the developing world, and their ships provide free surgeries to those with little access and serve as a platform for free training to local health care workers in Africa.
“Sterile Processing professionals are vital contributors to patient care and positive procedural outcomes,” said HSPA Executive Director Susan Adams, BA, CAE.
HSPA serves these professionals by providing structured educational and certification opportunities, professional development and support to more than 43,000 members and certification holders worldwide, with the goal of promoting patient safety and infection prevention.
“We are pleased to offer this scholarship through the HSPA Foundation in order to help serve the international community through Mercy Ships’ life-changing medical missions,” Adams added.
The HSPA Foundation is accepting scholarship applications for this mission through November 30, 2022, and will announce the recipient in January 2023. To learn more about the HSPA Foundation’s Mercy Ships Scholarship, including qualification criteria, frequently asked questions, and how to apply, visit: https://www.myhspa.org/foundation/foundation-scholarships/continuing-ed-scholarships-mercy
