How to Become a Patient Care Technician in Illinois

A patient care technician is someone who fulfills the needs of patients that they are incapable of fulfilling themselves. This includes feeding the patient and taking care of their personal and surrounding hygiene. Aside from these, a PTC also carries out several medical tasks like performing phlebotomy and dialysis procedures, monitoring vitals, and such. So if you want to become a patient care technician, you must be skilled in various matters of the healthcare field since you will have a lot of responsibility on you.

For those in Illinois, all these skills can be achieved in some of the best schools in the state. Here is everything you need to know about becoming a PCT in Illinois.

Popular Patient Care Tech Cities in Illinois

Aurora

Chicago

Requirements for Becoming a Patient Care Technician in Illinois

All jobs come with their own set of requirements. PCT is no different either. Though the requirements can vary based on the workplace, here are some basic ones-

Having a high school diploma or GED.

Completing a specialized PCT or equivalent (like CNA) training program. While the training itself should be over within a year and give you the required certification, you can aim for higher degrees for better job opportunities. That will take two years or more.

Passing the CPCT/A certification exam taken by the National Health Association. You will have the required qualification to work as a PCT professionally.

Finally, you have to be listed in the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry to be able to apply for jobs. For that, you have to pass an exam that has both written and practical parts.

Navigating Patient Care Technician Education and Careers in Illinois

Embarking on a fulfilling career as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in the diverse state of Illinois offers numerous opportunities for education and professional growth. This resource serves as your guide to finding accredited schools—both online and in-person—and exploring the rich array of Patient Care Technician employment opportunities in the Land of Lincoln.

Finding Patient Care Technician Schools in Illinois:

Online Programs: Explore accredited online programs designed to accommodate various schedules. Look for institutions offering comprehensive PCT training, enabling you to pursue your studies remotely while preparing for a rewarding career in healthcare.

In-Person Training: Illinois hosts several community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare training centers with in-person Patient Care Technician programs. Seek out programs that include hands-on clinical experience to enhance your practical skills and prepare you for real-world patient care.

Accreditation and Certification: Ensure the chosen program holds accreditation from recognized healthcare education bodies. 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 Illinois

Major Hospitals and Medical Centers: Explore employment opportunities within major healthcare institutions such as Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Advocate Aurora Health, and Rush University Medical Center. These facilities offer diverse patient care settings and ample opportunities for professional growth.

Specialized Healthcare Facilities: Consider roles in specialized healthcare facilities such as cancer centers, rehabilitation institutes, or outpatient clinics. PCTs in these settings play a crucial role in providing specialized care tailored to patients’ unique medical needs.

Long-Term Care and Assisted Living Facilities: Given Illinois’s diverse population, there is a demand for PCTs in long-term care and assisted living facilities. Explore opportunities to make a positive impact on the lives of residents by offering compassionate and dedicated care.

Home Healthcare Services: Investigate positions with home healthcare agencies across the state, providing personalized care to patients in their homes. This avenue allows for a more intimate and personalized 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 such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn to discover current job openings for Patient Care Technicians in Illinois. Creating a professional online profile can enhance your visibility to potential employers.

Embarking on a career as a Patient Care Technician in Illinois offers a blend of educational opportunities and dynamic employment prospects. Whether pursuing online or in-person education, Illinois’s healthcare landscape provides a unique platform for PCTs to contribute to the well-being of its diverse population. Best of luck as you embark on your journey toward becoming a skilled and compassionate Patient Care Technician in the Land of Lincoln!

Patient Care Technician Classes in Illinois

There are several good schools in Illinois where you can receive your PCT training. Here are some of the best ones-

Black Hawk College: The extensive PCT training program of BHC is a very well-designed and high-quality program. Completing the Patient Care Aide Certificate (first semester of the program) will earn you the Advanced First Aid and Emergency Red Cross Certification as well as Phlebotomy Certification. The Patient Care Aide Certificate is the pre-requisite for the Patient Care Technician Certificate here. You need a minimum 24 hours total to get the degree.