In recognition of Sterile Processing Week, Healthcare Purchasing News is hosting The State of Sterile Processing 2026, an independent benchmark study of leadership, workforce, and organizational influence, conducted and published by KLN Communications, led by Kara Nadeau, HPN’s Senior Contributing Editor.

Drawing on 60 survey submissions from sterile processing managers, supervisors, technicians, educators, consultants, and other professionals, the report explores leadership influence, involvement in purchasing decisions, cross-departmental collaboration, workforce challenges, and the profession’s future.

The findings highlight both progress and persistent gaps: Two-thirds of respondents said sterile processing’s organizational influence has increased, yet only about 41% agreed that their department has earned a seat at the leadership table.

Click “Download” below to explore the findings and learn directly from professionals working to strengthen sterile processing’s voice.