How to Become a Patient Care Technician in Utah
Working in the medical field is not only a rewarding experience, but it also comes with a lot of responsibilities. One of the most vital jobs available is that of a Patient Care Technician or PTC. Patients will receive all forms of basic care from a PTC, while doctors and nurses will be assisted with various medical operations. It’s a job that’s in high demand these days, so a lot of people are applying.
And if you live in Utah and want to become a PCT, here’s all you need to know about it.
Requirements for Becoming a Patient Care Technician in Utah
For those in Utah, the basic requirements for becoming a professional PCT include-
- Having at least a high school diploma or GED. You need it to qualify for the training programs and the certification exam.
- You have to first enter a Patient Care Technician training program from the school of your choice and complete the program with full attendance. If the school doesn’t have a PTC program, you can go for the CNA program, which is very similar. In many programs, the tuition for the certification exam will be covered up too.
- You must take the certification exam by NHA and get passing grades to get your professional PCT certification. One year of experience in the field can replace the need for a training program, which is a prerequisite for taking the exam.
- You must be listed under the Utah Nurse Aide Registry.
- Pass the criminal background check and drug screening test.
Patient Care Technician Employment Opportunities in Utah
Major Healthcare Systems: Explore employment opportunities within major healthcare institutions such as Intermountain Healthcare, University of Utah Health, and St. Mark’s 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 orthopedic 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: Utah’s growing 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 Utah. Creating a professional online profile can enhance your visibility to potential employers.
Embarking on a career as a Patient Care Technician in Utah provides a blend of educational opportunities and dynamic employment prospects. Whether pursuing online or in-person education, Utah’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 Beehive State!
Navigating Patient Care Technician Education and Careers in Utah
Embarking on a fulfilling career as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in the picturesque state of Utah offers a plethora of educational opportunities and promising employment prospects. 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 Beehive State.
Finding Patient Care Technician Schools in Utah
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: Utah 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 Classes in Utah
You need to enroll in a school or training institute to gain your PCT specialized training. Unfortunately, Utah currently does not have any such institute offering a dedicated PCT program. You have to complete the course from a different state and then come back to Utah to take the state registry exam if you want to work here.
Career Step, LLC
Address: 2901 Ashton Blvd. Suite 101
Lehi, Utah UT
Phone: 800-411-7073
Online: Yes