PCT Programs in Shreveport, Louisiana

Becoming a Patient Care Technician in Shreveport, Louisiana

Are you considering a career as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in Shreveport, Louisiana? This guide will walk you through the process of becoming a PCT, including the educational paths available, certification requirements, and local training programs. A Patient Care Technician plays a crucial role in the healthcare system, providing essential support to nurses and doctors while directly caring for patients. Whether you’re looking to start a new career or enhance your skills in the medical field, becoming a PCT can be a rewarding choice.

About Shreveport

Shreveport, located in the northwest region of Louisiana, is a city known for its rich cultural heritage and bustling healthcare industry. As the third-largest city in the state, Shreveport offers a range of opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the R.W. Norton Art Gallery and the Louisiana Boardwalk. For more information about Shreveport, visit the official city website.

PCT Training Programs in Shreveport, Louisiana

If you’re looking to enroll in a Patient Care Technician program in Shreveport, there are several local options to consider:

1. Southern University at Shreveport
   Located in the Martin Luther King Jr. neighborhood, Southern University offers a comprehensive PCT program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience. For more details, visit the Southern University at Shreveport PCT program page.

2. Blue Cliff College
   Situated in the Broadmoor neighborhood, Blue Cliff College provides a PCT program designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for a successful career in healthcare. Learn more about their program here.

3. Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center
   Located in the Highland neighborhood, LSU Health Sciences Center offers a robust PCT training program that includes both theoretical and practical components. For more information, check out their program page.

PCT Employment Opportunities in Shreveport

Shreveport is home to several major healthcare facilities that offer employment opportunities for certified Patient Care Technicians:

1. Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport
   Located in the Highland neighborhood, Ochsner LSU Health is a leading healthcare provider in the region. They offer a range of employment opportunities for PCTs. Visit their careers page for more information.

2. Willis-Knighton Health System
   Situated in the Broadmoor neighborhood, Willis-Knighton is one of the largest healthcare systems in Shreveport. They frequently hire PCTs to join their team. Explore their employment opportunities.

3. CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System
   Located in the Caddo Heights neighborhood, CHRISTUS Health offers a variety of roles for Patient Care Technicians. Check out their careers page for current openings.

Prerequisites for PCT Programs

To enroll in a PCT program in Shreveport, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Completion of a state-approved PCT training program
• Clean criminal background check
• Some programs may require drug screening and immunizations

PCT Certification Requirements

After completing your training, you must pass a certification exam to become a certified Patient Care Technician. Two nationally recognized certification exams are:

• National Healthcareer Association (NHA): The Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) exam. Learn more
• American Medical Certification Association (AMCA): The Patient Care Technician Certification (PCTC) exam.

To be eligible for the CPCT/A exam, you must have a high school diploma or GED, or be scheduled to earn one within the next 12 months. Alternatively, you can have 1 year of supervised work experience in a patient care technician field within the last 3 years, or 2 years of supervised work experience within the last 5 years.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Patient Care Technician in Shreveport, Louisiana, is a commendable choice that can lead to a fulfilling career in healthcare. With the right training and certification, you can make a significant impact in the lives of patients and healthcare teams. Take the first step today by reaching out to one of the local schools offering PCT programs and start your journey toward becoming a certified Patient Care Technician.

For more information on the job outlook for Patient Care Technicians, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.