How to Become a Patient Care Technician in Oklahoma
A patient care technician, abbreviated as PTC, may appear to be a job that is very similar to that of a nurse or medical assistant. Though there are some similarities in the duties of both groups of people, a PTC is usually in charge of a broader range of hospital-related activities. As a result, if you become a PTC, you will bear a great deal of responsibility. However, you will become an irreplaceable asset to the hospital as well as an important member of the healthcare industry as a result of this.
And if you live in Oklahoma, here is everything you need to know about pursuing your dream of becoming a patient care technician.
Requirements for Becoming a Patient Care Technician in Oklahoma
Just like in any other profession, you need to fulfill some basic requirements to get a shot at becoming a PTC. For Oklahoma, these are the requirements-
- Most of the time, you must have a high school diploma or GED to both qualify for the patient care technician training programs and take the certification exams.
- First of all, you have to enter a Patient Care Technician training program to receive specialized education and training for becoming a PCT. The program will usually include CNA courses. You can either complete the program at a general school or a specialized one. If the school you’re going to doesn’t have a PCT program, you can look for a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) program instead. The program duration may vary.
- The National Healthcare Association (NHA) offers the best certification for patient care technicians, known as the CPCT/A. Once you complete your program, you will be ready to sit for the exam, which lasts 1 hour and 50 minutes. Within then, you have to answer a total of 120 questions.
- If you pass the exam, you will have the certification to apply for a job. But before that, you have to be listed under the Oklahoma Nurse Aide Registry if you want to get accepted into a job.
Exploring Patient Care Technician Education and Careers in Oklahoma
Embarking on a fulfilling career as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in the diverse state of Oklahoma offers a wealth of educational opportunities and promising employment prospects. This comprehensive resource serves as your guide to finding accredited schools—both online and in-person—and navigating the landscape of Patient Care Technician employment in the Sooner State.
Finding Patient Care Technician Schools in Oklahoma
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: Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma
Major Healthcare Systems: Explore employment opportunities within major healthcare institutions such as OU Health, Integris Health, and St. Francis Health System. These facilities offer diverse patient care settings, providing numerous opportunities for professional growth.
Specialized Healthcare Facilities: Consider roles in specialized healthcare facilities such as trauma 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: Oklahoma’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 Oklahoma. Creating a professional online profile can enhance your visibility to potential employers.
Embarking on a career as a Patient Care Technician in Oklahoma provides a blend of educational opportunities and dynamic employment prospects. Whether pursuing online or in-person education, Oklahoma’s healthcare landscape offers 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 Sooner State!
Requirements for Becoming a Patient Care Technician in Oklahoma
There are very few schools in Oklahoma worth getting into for PCT training. Here is one you can check out-
Tulsa Community College
At this college, the training for CNA and PCT is given in the same program. The program combines hands-on training with classroom instruction.
Northeast Tech
Address: 1901 N Highway 88
Claremore, Oklahoma OK
Phone: 855-520-6806
Online: Yes
Canadian Valley Technology Center - Cowan Campus
Address: 1701 S Czech Hall Road
Yukon, Oklahoma OK
Phone: 405-345-3333
Online: Yes