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The Association of Surgical Assistants (ASA) and the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA) continue to collaborate closely in their shared commitment to advancing and strengthening the surgical assistant profession. Through this partnership, the organizations have initiated the formation of the American Academy of Surgical Assistants (AASA), a unified professional body representing the combined expertise, leadership, and strategic vision of both associations. The creation of AASA reflects a deliberate and forward-focused effort to enhance professional standards, expand organizational capacity, and support the long-term growth and recognition of surgical assistants nationwide.
While a definitive completion date for the transition has not yet been finalized, the joint leadership teams have made significant and measurable progress. An integrated Board of Directors, composed of equal representation from ASA and NSAA, has been formally established to guide the development of the new organization. In addition, the Association Bylaws have been fully adopted, and work is actively underway on a comprehensive Policy and Procedures Manual that will serve as the operational foundation for AASA.
The leadership of both organizations remains committed to transparency throughout this process and will continue to provide updates as additional milestones are achieved.
National Surgical Assistant Association Membership Assistance Program (MAP)
The National Surgical Assistant Association Membership Assistance Program (MAP) is a voluntary disaster relief fund established to aid current NSAA members for membership dues who suffer hardship, or damage to their property, as the result of severe storms and natural disasters, such as Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
If you need to apply for this program please contact Jami at NSAA. More...
NSAA MEMBERSHIP
NSAA's primary purpose is to provide professional development to Surgical Assistants through continuing education, certification, networking, publications and meeting with peers and other allied health professionals. We are the first organization in the country to establish standards of professionalism.
JOB BOARD
NSAA's primary purpose is to provide professional development to Surgical Assistants through continuing education, certification, networking, publications and meeting with peers and other allied health professionals. We are the first organization in the country to establish standards of professionalism.
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
NSAA's primary purpose is to provide professional development to Surgical Assistants through continuing education, certification, networking, publications and meeting with peers and other allied health professionals. We are the first organization in the country to establish standards of professionalism.
EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
NSAA's primary purpose is to provide professional development to Surgical Assistants through continuing education, certification, networking, publications and meeting with peers and other allied health professionals. We are the first organization in the country to establish standards of professionalism.
Welcome To NSAA
In 1979, a group of Surgical Assistants banded together to form the Virginia Association of Surgical Assistants, set up a job description and standards for practice. This group saw a need for S.A.'s and the need for education. The Eastern Virginia Medical School then became the home for the S.A. program. With the help of the Department of Surgery at Norfolk General Hospital, they developed a Certification Exam.
This group also conducted a survey across the country to find out just how many people were out there working in the capacity of a Surgical Assistant. They were amazed to find how many S.A's were going unrecognized for the job they performed. Reaching out across the United States, the membership grew and thus the Virginia Association of Surgical Assistants became the National Surgical Assistant Association in 1983.
In recognition of National Surgical Assistant Week (April 13-17, 2026), we are delighted to honor the invaluable contributions of surgical assistants across the field. Your dedication, skill, and commitment play a vital role in advancing patient care, and we want to take this opportunity to celebrate your hard work.
As part of the celebration, we will be hosting a daily drawing throughout the week. Each day, one member will be selected at random to receive a membership voucher for 2027, allowing you to continue your professional growth and engagement with our community in the year ahead. The drawing for Friday will be from one of the NSAA members attending the Conference in Atlanta that day. That day’s winner will receive their 2027 Membership Dues voucher directly. All other winners will be notified directly via email, so please ensure your contact information is up to date so you can receive your voucher promptly.
Thank you for your ongoing dedication to surgical care and for the vital role you play in our profession. We look forward to celebrating with you and recognizing the contributions that make a difference every day.
National Surgical Assistant Association Membership Assistance Program (MAP)
If you need to apply for this program please contact Jami at NSAA.
Notice to all Virginia Members
Can a surgical assistant be a catalyst for efficiency in the operating room?
Non-Physician Surgical Assistant Utilization And Efficiency Analysis
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