PCT Programs in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Becoming a Patient Care Technician in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
If you’re considering a career as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, you’re embarking on a rewarding path in the healthcare industry. PCTs play a crucial role in patient care, assisting nurses and doctors by providing essential services such as phlebotomy, EKG monitoring, and basic patient care. This guide will walk you through the steps to become a PCT in Milwaukee, including education paths, certification requirements, and local training programs.
About Milwaukee
Milwaukee, located on the western shore of Lake Michigan, is Wisconsin’s largest city and a hub of cultural and economic activity. Known for its brewing traditions and the Milwaukee Art Museum, the city offers a rich blend of history and modernity. For more information, visit the official Milwaukee city website.
PCT Training Programs in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee offers several options for PCT training programs. Here are three institutions where you can begin your journey:
- Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC)
– MATC offers a comprehensive PCT program that covers essential skills such as phlebotomy, EKG, and patient care. The program is designed to be completed in 3 to 12 months, depending on the student’s schedule. For more details, visit the MATC PCT program page.
- Moraine Park Technical College
– Located a short drive from Milwaukee, Moraine Park Technical College provides a PCT program focused on hands-on training and real-world experience. The curriculum includes medical terminology and patient care skills. Learn more on their official website.
- Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC)
– NWTC offers a PCT program that emphasizes both classroom instruction and clinical practice. The program prepares students for national certification exams. More information can be found on the NWTC website.
PCT Employment Opportunities in Milwaukee
Milwaukee is home to several major healthcare facilities where PCTs can find employment:
- Froedtert Hospital
– Located in the Wauwatosa neighborhood, Froedtert Hospital is a leading academic medical center offering a range of employment opportunities for PCTs. Visit their careers page for more information.
- Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center
– Situated in the Bay View area, Aurora St. Luke’s is one of the largest hospitals in the state, providing numerous job openings for Patient Care Technicians. Check out their employment opportunities.
- Children’s Wisconsin
– Located in the Wauwatosa neighborhood, Children’s Wisconsin is a top pediatric hospital offering specialized roles for PCTs. Explore their careers page for current openings.
Prerequisites for PCT Programs
To enroll in a PCT program in Milwaukee, you typically need:
- A high school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Current CPR certification.
- A clean criminal background check.
- Proof of immunizations, such as Hepatitis B and influenza, may be required by some programs.
PCT Certification Requirements
After completing your training, you can apply for national certification through organizations like:
- National Healthcareer Association (NHA): Offers the Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) certification.
- Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT): Provides the Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician (CCHT) certification.
Certification exams cover core competencies and typically cost between $150 and $250. Additionally, you must register with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, which involves passing a competency evaluation and undergoing a background check. Continuing education is required to maintain certifications, with most organizations requiring credits every two years.
For more information, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page for PCTs.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Patient Care Technician in Milwaukee is a fulfilling choice. With the right training and certification, you can make a significant impact in healthcare. Reach out to a local school today to learn more about their PCT programs and take the first step towards your new career.