Programs Coming 2025

Programs Coming 2025

Programs Coming 2025

Coming Soon! Patient Care Technician Program

Get hands-on training in the clinical skills needed to provide direct care and support to patients in as little as 8 weeks, and begin an exciting career as a Patient Care Technician.

Get hands-on training in the clinical skills needed to provide direct care and support to patients in as little as 8 weeks, and begin an exciting career as a Patient Care Technician.

Get hands-on training in the clinical skills needed to provide direct care and support to patients in as little as 8 weeks, and begin an exciting career as a Patient Care Technician.

8-10 Weeks

Program Length

emt program icon

CPCT/A

Certification

Hybrid Learning

50% Online, 50% Labs

Hybrid Learning

50% Online, 50% Labs

Hybrid Learning

50% Online, 50% Labs

What is a Patient Care Technician?

Certified patient care technicians (PCTs) provide direct care and support to patients under the supervision of registered nurses and other healthcare providers. PCTs often work in hospitals and extended care facilities such as nursing homes, residential care, and rehabilitation centers.

The future is bright for entry-level patient care technicians. Job prospects are expected to steadily grow through 2032, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook. In California, patient care technicians make an average salary of $47,070 a year.

PCTs are often confused with certified nursing assistants or medical assistants. While similar, there are some key differences between the three.

PCT vs. CNA: PCTs perform many of the same functions as CNAs (certified nursing assistants) such as helping patients perform daily living tasks and providing emotional support. Unlike CNAs, PCTs have a broader scope of medical responsibilities, like drawing blood, dispensing medication, and more. Because of this, PCTs can often find work in specialized areas such as oncology, pediatrics, and more.

PCT vs. CMA: CMAs (certified medical assistants) perform clinical AND administrative duties, while PCTs focus on the critical day-to-day care that patients require. CMAs typically work in a doctor’s office or clinic and are responsible for tasks like checking vital signs, scheduling appointments, and preparing rooms for patients. A PCT often works in hospitals or extended care facilities and does not handle administrative tasks.

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Other Programs At This Location

More programs coming soon!

    Why California Chooses CALRegional

    Fastest Certification in California Icon

    Fastest Certification in California

    Beware of phlebotomy training sites promoting fast-paced programs, as that doesn't always mean you'll get certified and licensed quickly. At CALRegional, our students are certified and eligible to apply for licensure in as little as 3 weeks.

    Immediate Externship Placement Icon

    Immediate Externship Placement

    While most phlebotomy programs can take up to 90 days to place you in an externship, our students are placed immediately. Don't let delays hinder your career progression - CALRegional fast-tracks your transition into the workforce.

    91% Certification Passing Rate Icon

    91% Certification Passing Rate

    Unlike others, CALRegional is transparent about passing rates. Our phlebotomy students not only pass the class but get certified as well. With an impressive 91% passing rate, CALRegional phlebotomy students outperform the industry average.

    A Better Approach to Patient Care Technician Training

    The Patient Care Technician Program provides students with hands-on training in various clinical skills essential for assisting healthcare professionals. Become certified as an entry-level patient care technician in as little as 8 weeks for $2,995 or less. Easy payment plans are available through our partner schools. No previous medical experience is required.

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    The patient care technician course is a hybrid program consisting of 50% online and instructor-led lectures and 50% labs. The program is authorized to run through our adult school and community college partnerships.

    Upon graduation, students will be prepared to take the national exam for Patient Care Technician/Assistant Certification through the National Healthcare Association (NHA). CALRegional students have a 90% passing rate, over 26% more than our competitors.

    If you enjoy providing emotional support for others and are interested in the clinical side of healthcare, a career as a patient care technician may be right for you. This role allows you to greatly impact the lives of patients and their families as they navigate health challenges.

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    Patient Care Technician Includes:

    • 140 hours of classroom instruction & hands-on training
    • Guaranteed 80-hour externship
    • CPR certification
    • National exam
    PCT Skills You will Learn Photo

    Skills You Will Learn

    Comprehensive patient care including bathing, feeding, catheter care, etc.
    Obtaining EKG readings, monitor vital signs, and perform phlebotomy procedures
    Acquire, distribute, and administer patient care supplies
    Perform safety checks and ensure cleanliness in patient rooms
    Provide emotional support to patients and families, particularly those coping with grief and death

    Patient Care Technician Externship & Certification

    Externship

    The Patient Care Technician Program includes placement into an 80-hour externship at the end of the course. While a clinical externship is not required to obtain certification in California, the experience helps our students get their foot in the door faster because they are job-ready.

    Certification

    Tuition includes the CPCT/A (Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant) exam through the NHA. Students will be prepared to take the national certification exam on the last day of class. Once students successfully pass our program and complete the national exam, students are ready to begin their externship and will receive a certificate of completion for our program.

    Certification

    Certification

    Upcoming Classes

    CALRegional offers day, evening and weekend classes. View full program schedules on the Enroll page.

    Speak with an Admissions Specialist

    Are you ready to fast-track your career in healthcare? Call our team today for more information on our healthcare training programs or to enroll over the phone.

    1 (800) 927-5159