Comparing SPD Program Models
A comprehensive analysis of delivery methods, features, and outcomes for Sterile Processing Department training programs
Table of contents
  • A Side-by-Side Analysis of Delivery Methods and Features
A Side-by-Side Analysis of Delivery Methods and Features
SPD Program Models — Side-by-Side Comparison
Overview
This comparison examines three SPD (Sterile Processing Department) program models, highlighting their delivery methods, included features, realities, and costs. Each program is designed for a cohort of 15 learners over a 10-week period.
Retail SPD Program
Individual Training Model
Delivery:
Self-paced with minimal support and no live instruction or intervention.
What's Included:
  • Access to the SPD course
  • Basic Learning Management System (LMS)
  • BLS/CPR certification
  • One exam attempt with limited retake support
What's Missing:
  • Monitoring or accountability
  • Case management
  • Insurance allocation
  • Reporting or outcomes tracking
  • Workforce alignment
Reality:
  • High dropout risk
  • Suitable for self-motivated learners only
Typical Cost:
$19,500–$24,750 for 15 learners
Virtual Workforce Model
Fully virtual with continuous monitoring and human support.
What's Included:
  • Licensed SPD course
  • Full LMS access
  • Continuous progress monitoring
  • BLS/CPR certification
  • Unlimited SPD exam retake support
  • Insurance allocation
  • Reporting and communications
  • Case support and intervention
What's Not Included:
  • In-person labs
  • Meals
  • Success kits
Reality:
  • Reduced dropout
  • High focus on completion
Program Range:
Approximately $30K-$35K, depending on support
Hybrid Workforce Model
Recommended
Delivery:
Combination of virtual instruction and in-person lab days, supported by a high-support staffing model.
What's Included:
All features of the Virtual Workforce Model plus:
  • In-person, hospital-aligned labs
  • Food during in-person days
  • Non-tech success kits
  • Transportation and emergency support
  • Expanded reporting and accountability
Reality:
  • Highest engagement levels
  • Strongest rates of completion and exam success
  • Alignment with hospital workforce needs
True Program Value:
$50K-$55K
Discounted Funded Price:
$45,000 per cohort
Multi-Course / Multi-Cohort Note

Running multiple courses or cohorts concurrently can lead to shared costs for insurance, systems, and administration, potentially offering 15-20% discounts per additional cohort.
Executive Takeaway
Retail programs often accept high dropout rates, whereas Stellar Bridges focuses on funding completion, certification, and workforce readiness, ensuring a better alignment with career demands and learner success.
High-Support Workforce Models — Budget Breakdown
Sterile Processing Technician (SPD) | 15 Learners | 10 Weeks
This add-on outlines the line-item cost structure for two workforce delivery models designed for high-risk youth. Both models prioritize certification completion, accountability, and workforce readiness. Costs scale based on level of support and delivery method.
Note: These figures are estimates for a cohort of 15 learners over 10 weeks and can vary based on specific program customizations and regional costs.
High-Support Virtual Model (Fully Online) - line items
Line-Item Budget
Hybrid Add-On (Virtual + In-Person Labs) - line items
The Hybrid Workforce Model builds on the High-Support Virtual base by adding in-person lab experiences and engagement supports aligned with hospital environments.
Hybrid Add-On Line Items

Multi-Course / Multi-Cohort Efficiency
When multiple courses or cohorts run concurrently, shared insurance, systems, and administrative infrastructure allow for 15–20% discounts on additional cohorts.
Programs may also be customized to fit available budgets, including adjustments such as:
  • Exam fees covered by learners instead of the program
  • Reduced staffing hours or support levels
  • Modified delivery formats (virtual vs. hybrid)
  • Phased implementation of engagement or support services
This flexibility allows partners to scale responsibly without sacrificing core outcomes.
Pricing Context & Baseline Comparison
Retail SPD Program — Virtual (Market Reference)
(Certificate of Completion | Minimal Support)
Included:
  • SPD Course Access
  • Basic LMS Access
  • BLS/CPR (varies by provider)
  • One exam attempt (limited or no retake support)
  • Minimal or no progress monitoring
  • No case management or intervention
  • No insurance allocation
  • No reporting beyond completion
Retail Price (Paid in Full): ~$13,500 per cohort (15 learners)
Note: Retail models accept higher dropout risk.
Stellar Bridges — Virtual Bare Minimum
(Certificate of Completion Only | Market-Aligned)
Included:
  • Licensed SPD Course
  • Full LMS Access
  • Minimal progress monitoring
  • Certificate of completion
  • Insurance allocation (10-week virtual cohort)
  • Basic administration & compliance coordination
Intentionally Excludes:
  • BLS / CPR certification
  • SPD exam fees or retakes
  • Live instruction or office hours
  • Case management or retention services
  • Success kits or technology
  • In-person labs or meals
  • Enhanced reporting or workforce outcomes
Program Price: ~$13,000 per cohort
Stellar Bridges — Hybrid Bare Minimum
(Certificate of Completion Only | Limited In-Person Exposure)
All Virtual Bare-Minimum components, plus:
  • Limited in-person lab exposure
  • On-site instructional supervision
  • Hybrid logistics & coordination
  • In-person insurance rider
Program Price: ~$17,500 per cohort
Value Differentiation (Applies to Workforce Models)
  • Certification & exam coverage
  • Unlimited retake support
  • Continuous monitoring & intervention
  • Case management & retention support
  • Workforce readiness alignment
  • Institutional reporting & accountability
Note: These elements are intentionally excluded from bare-minimum pricing and added only when funding supports completion and outcomes.

Key Takeaway
Retail programs price low and accept dropout. Stellar Bridges invests in completion, certification, and workforce outcomes.