Post written by Gottumukkala S. Raju, MD, from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.

Our focus is the development and implementation of a formal training and certification program for endoscopy technicians (ETs) at Houston Community College.

We conducted this study to develop a formal training program for ETs in a community college, ensuring they are fully trained and ready to work, rather than learning on the job with patients.

This study demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of a community college’s formalized ET training program, addressing a critical training gap.

Graduates showed significant improvement in knowledge and skills (passing the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy’s Endoscopy Technician Training Certificate of Completion Assessment Examination), with high employment rates post-graduation, indicating the program’s success in meeting industry demands. This program can be a blueprint for other institutions to adopt standardized ET training nationwide.

Future efforts should focus on replicating this model, conducting longitudinal studies to track graduates’ career progression, and continuously updating the curriculum to incorporate endoscopic technology and procedure advancements.

Outline of the steps taken to create the educational program. DACUM, Development of a Curriculum Conference; SACS, The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; ASGE, American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

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The information presented in Endoscopedia reflects the opinions of the authors and does not represent the position of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE). ASGE expressly disclaims any warranties or guarantees, expressed or implied, and is not liable for damages of any kind in connection with the material, information, or procedures set forth.