How to Become a Patient Care Technician in Mississippi
There are many different types of staff in a hospital or other medical facility who do distinct tasks. One of them is a patient care technician, who may handle up to 60% of all activities in a medical facility. They keep regular contact with the patients and give them the best possible care and comfort. They also perform a variety of routine medical procedures.
Therefore, you might want to pursue a career as a PCT if you’re interested in this. If you live in Mississippi, here is how you can chase your dreams.
Requirements for Becoming a Patient Care Technician in Mississippi
To become a patient care technician in Mississippi, here are the prerequisites you have to follow-
- You must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
- A school or training institute must offer a PCT specialized or comparable training program. Clinical hours will be required as part of the curriculum, and you must attend all of them. The length of a program varies by school and degree.
- NHA’s certification exam is usually the best option for obtaining your PCT license. The CPCT/A exam is the one you must pass in order to qualify as a PCT. One year of field experience can substitute for a specialized training program. Having the certification grants you entry to the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry, which is a must.
- You must also have a clean criminal background and pass the drug screening test.
Navigating Patient Care Technician Education and Careers in Mississippi
Embarking on a rewarding career as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in the state of Mississippi opens up a world of educational possibilities and promising employment opportunities. This comprehensive resource serves as your guide to finding accredited schools—both online and in-person—and exploring the landscape of Patient Care Technician employment in the Magnolia State.
Finding Patient Care Technician Schools in Mississippi
Online Programs: Explore accredited online programs tailored to accommodate various schedules. Look for institutions offering comprehensive PCT training, enabling you to pursue your studies remotely while preparing for a fulfilling career in healthcare.
In-Person Training: Mississippi hosts several community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare training centers offering in-person Patient Care Technician programs. Seek out programs that include hands-on clinical experience to enhance 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 Mississippi
Major Healthcare Systems: Explore employment opportunities within major healthcare institutions such as University of Mississippi Medical Center, Baptist Memorial Health Care, and St. Dominic Hospital. These facilities offer diverse patient care settings, providing numerous opportunities for professional growth.
Specialized Healthcare Facilities: Consider roles in specialized healthcare facilities such as rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, or specialty hospitals. 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: Mississippi’s aging population creates 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 Mississippi. Creating a professional online profile can enhance your visibility to potential employers.
Embarking on a career as a Patient Care Technician in Mississippi offers a blend of educational opportunities and dynamic employment prospects. Whether pursuing online or in-person education, Mississippi’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 Magnolia State!
Patient Care Technician Classes in Mississippi
To gain your required PCT training, you first need to choose a school to receive it from. There are a few schools in this state where you can get PCT training. Here are some of them-
Hinds Community College
The Health Care Assistant program of HCC will prepare you with the skills needed to become a PCT. The curriculum of the program references standards based on the State of Mississippi Nurse Aide Candidate Handbook Exam Content Outline. There is only one semester consisting of 16 hours, and you will be able to qualify for a wide range of medical jobs.
Jones College
Jones college also offers a great one-semester Health Care Assistant program. The program combines classroom instruction with laboratory work and clinical practice. Basic life support (American Heart Association), body structure and function, human growth and development, and nutrition are also included in the program.
Mississippi State University Extension Center for Continuing Education
Address: 190 Bost Drive
Mississippi State, Mississippi MS
Phone: 662-325-5002
Online: No
Medical2 Career College & National Certification Agency
Address: 1830A N Gloster St
Tupelo, Mississippi MS
Phone: 877-741-1996
Online: Yes