PCT Programs in Gilbert, Arizona
Becoming a Patient Care Technician in Gilbert, Arizona
Are you considering a rewarding career as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in Gilbert, Arizona? This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a PCT, including the education paths available, certification requirements, and employment opportunities in the area. A Patient Care Technician plays a crucial role in healthcare settings, providing essential support to nurses and doctors while directly caring for patients. There are various education paths to becoming a PCT, including completing accredited training programs that combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience.
About Gilbert
Gilbert, Arizona, is a thriving town located in the southeast valley of the Phoenix metropolitan area. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent quality of life, Gilbert offers a blend of suburban living with easy access to urban amenities. The town is home to beautiful parks, a vibrant downtown area, and a strong sense of community. For more information about Gilbert, visit the official Gilbert website.
PCT Training Programs in Gilbert, Arizona
If you’re looking to enroll in a PCT program in Gilbert, here are some local options:
- Phoenix College
Located in the heart of Phoenix, Phoenix College offers a comprehensive Patient Care Technician program that includes both theoretical and practical training. The program prepares students for the NHA certification exam. Visit Phoenix College’s PCT Program. Brookline College
Situated in nearby Tempe, Brookline College provides a Patient Care Technician program designed to equip students with the skills needed for success in healthcare settings. Explore Brookline College’s PCT Program.Pima Medical Institute
With a campus in Mesa, Pima Medical Institute offers a well-rounded PCT program that includes hands-on clinical experience. Learn more about Pima Medical Institute’s PCT Program.
PCT Employment Opportunities in Gilbert
Gilbert is home to several major healthcare facilities where PCTs can find employment opportunities:
- Banner Gateway Medical Center
Located in the Gateway neighborhood, Banner Gateway Medical Center is a leading healthcare facility offering a range of services. Check out Banner Gateway’s Careers Page. Dignity Health Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
Situated in the Val Vista Lakes area, this hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services and is a potential employer for PCTs. Visit Mercy Gilbert’s Careers Page.Chandler Regional Medical Center
Although located in nearby Chandler, this facility is easily accessible from Gilbert and offers numerous healthcare career opportunities. Explore Chandler Regional’s Careers Page.
Prerequisites for PCT Programs
To enroll in a PCT program in Arizona, including Gilbert, you must typically meet the following prerequisites:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Completion of a background check and drug screening
- Up-to-date immunizations and a valid CPR card
- Some programs may require entrance exams
PCT Certification Requirements
While certification is not mandatory in Arizona, it is highly preferred by employers. The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) offers a widely recognized certification for PCTs. To become certified, you must:
- Pass the NHA certification exam with a score of at least 70%
- Register for the exam on the NHA website
- Pay the exam fee, typically around $149
Some programs, like those at Central Arizona College, include a voucher for the certification exam.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Patient Care Technician in Gilbert, Arizona, is a fulfilling choice that offers numerous opportunities in the healthcare field. With the right training and certification, you can make a significant impact on patients’ lives. Contact a local school today to learn more about their PCT programs and take the first step toward your new career.
For more information on the job outlook for Patient Care Technicians, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ page on Nursing Assistants and Orderlies.