Chicago, Feb. 15, 2008 - Nearly five months after the American Society for Healthcare Central Service Professionals formally announced its intent to merge with the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management, the merger has been finalized.

Although the legalities surrounding the merger took longer than anticipated, IAHCSMM is pleased that the goal of creating a unified front for the Central Service profession is now a reality.

“Over the course of this business transaction, IAHCSMM practiced due diligence to ensure that members’ best interests remained at the forefront,” said IAHCSMM president Richard Schule. “IAHCSMM is looking forward to welcoming with open arms any ASHCSP member who wishes to become part of our dynamic association.”

From the initial announcement of the merger intent, IAHCSMM has stood behind its promise for creating a stronger voice for the industry’s CS professionals, which include technicians, supervisors, managers, directors, and educators. The healthcare community as a whole will benefit from stronger educational materials, robust educational conferences, enhanced lobbying efforts, and a single organization to conduct future business in a prompt, efficient manner. Energies, talent and finances spent supporting two organizations will now be focused on one entity to develop new products and enhance existing quality documents and educational resources.

“Our continued goal is to provide a caring, dedicated, experienced association that is committed to lending a hand and personal touch to each and every member and chapter,” added Schule. “IAHCSMM believes that quality experience should include a warm, friendly and knowledgeable voice when calling headquarters, and above all, a team of experienced leaders and experts available to support members and provide them with industry-leading educational resources to promote quality and ongoing professional growth.”

The finalization of the merger comes just weeks before IAHCSMM’s 43rd Annual Meeting, which will mark the Association’s 50 years of serving the Central Service community. The highly anticipated meeting, scheduled May 4-7, 2008, in Reno, NV, will provide a golden opportunity for new members to become well acquainted with IAHCSMM, its executive board, and the Association’s well regarded and widely respected educational resources.

In the meantime, IAHCSMM is committed to answering any questions and allaying any concerns related to the merger. The Association has posted Frequently Asked Questions (on the IAHSCMM website) and is encouraging any member who has additional questions or comments to reach out to IAHCSMM headquarters directly.

“Anytime two organizations merge or one group is acquired it can, understandably, be an emotional time for both sides, especially for those who have poured their hearts and souls into the organizations,” Schule acknowledged. “Change isn’t always easy, but in this case, we are confident it will bring a decidedly positive outcome for the CS profession. We look forward to welcoming any member who wants to become a part of our organization’s next 50-years.”

About IAHCSMM
Founded in 1958, the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management is the largest association for professionals in health care central service/materiel management. IAHCSMM provides structural educational opportunities, professional development and a forum for information exchange to nearly 10,000 members.

*Note: ASHCSP members, please allow 2-3 weeks processing for requested membership information.

Dates and Locations:

23rd Annual Education Conference
& Vendor Show

Saturday July 19 & Sunday 20, 2008
The Queen Mary
1126 Queen’s Highway
Long Beach, CA 90806

Calif. BRN Approval Code: CEP6914

IAHCSMM Approval Code: Pending

CBSPD Approval Code Pending
(formerly NICHSPDP)

Federal ID # 94-3132914


A flyer is available here, or in the Downloads section.
http://www.ccsa1.org/download.php?view.23</a>

Additional info on upcoming regional seminars will be posted shortly. Please check back regularly.

Please note: Brochures for confirmed seminars in adobe .pdf format are available from the downloads section or will be added shortly.