How to Become a Patient Care Technician in Florida

A patient care technician is someone who looks after the basic needs and demands of the patients and carries out different types of medical tasks like drawing blood, monitoring vitals, performing dialysis, and such. Almost 60% of the total activities of a hospital, nursing home, or care facility are done by a patient care technician, so it’s a high-demand position in Florida. Also, it is possible to get entry-level employment within a short amount of time if you decide to become a PCT.

If you are in Florida, there are some great opportunities waiting for you if you want to pursue a career in this line. Here is everything you need to know about it.

Jacksonville Florida

Requirements for Becoming a Patient Care Technician in Florida

If you want to work as a patient care technician in Florida, you have to meet some basic requirements first. These include-

Having a high school diploma or GED.

Enrolling into a PCT specialized or equivalent training program. The duration and design of the program vary from school to school, so you must choose wisely. Choosing an accredited program will be the best to ensure high-quality education. Clinical hours included in the program must be attended fully.

After completing the training program, you can become a certified patient care technician/assistant (CPCT/A). You have to pass the certification exam taken by the National Health Association (NHA). You can also take the exam without completing a program. The exam will have 20 pretest and 100 test questions.

Once you pass the exam, you must register yourself in the Florida Nurse Aide Registry to be able to apply for jobs.

Navigating Patient Care Technician Schools and Career Paths in Florida

Introduction: Are you dreaming of a career as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in the Sunshine State? This comprehensive resource is your guide to discovering accredited schools—both online and in-person—and exploring the abundant Patient Care Technician employment opportunities available throughout Florida.

Finding Patient Care Technician Schools in Florida:

Online Programs: Dive into accredited online programs that offer the flexibility needed for busy schedules. Seek out institutions providing comprehensive PCT training, enabling you to study remotely while preparing for a fulfilling healthcare career.

In-Person Training: For those who prefer hands-on learning, Florida offers numerous community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare training centers with in-person Patient Care Technician programs. Look for programs that include clinical rotations to enhance your practical skills.

Accreditation and Certification: Ensure the chosen program holds accreditation from reputable healthcare education bodies. Additionally, verify whether the program prepares you for industry-recognized certification exams, such as the National Healthcareer Association’s (NHA) Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) exam.

Patient Care Technician Employment Opportunities in Florida

Major Healthcare Systems: Florida boasts a plethora of major healthcare systems, including AdventHealth, Baptist Health, and Jackson Health System. Explore employment opportunities within these institutions, where PCTs contribute significantly to patient care.

Specialized Healthcare Facilities: Consider roles in specialized healthcare facilities such as cancer centers, cardiovascular institutes, or orthopedic clinics. PCTs in these settings play a vital role in delivering specialized care to patients with unique medical needs.

Assisted Living and Long-Term Care Facilities: Florida’s senior population creates a demand for PCTs in assisted living and long-term care facilities. Explore opportunities to make a difference in the lives of residents by providing compassionate and dedicated care.

Home Healthcare Services: Investigate positions with home healthcare agencies throughout the state, offering the chance to provide personalized care to patients in their homes. This option allows for a more intimate and one-on-one patient care experience.

Educational Institutions and Research Centers: Explore opportunities within educational institutions and research centers that offer healthcare programs. Some PCTs transition into roles as educators or clinical researchers, contributing to advancements in patient care and education.

Job Search Platforms: Leverage popular job search platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn to discover current job openings for Patient Care Technicians in Florida. Creating a professional online profile can enhance your visibility to potential employers.

Patient Care Technician Classes in Florida

Luckily for you, there are hundreds of amazing colleges and training institutes available in Florida providing PCT training programs, so you are sure to find one that fits you the best. You can start off the hunt by checking these out first –

Academy for Nursing and Health Occupations: If you want to take it slow and get the most detailed as well as high-quality training in the PCT sector, ANHO has a great program for you. The program lasts for 22-24 weeks (2 years), with a total of 603 clock hours that include theory, lab, and clinical rotations. The program includes Home Health Aide, Nurse Assisting, Patient Care Assisting, as well as one more allied health module that you can choose.