Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Alaska

If you want to become a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in Alaska, the first step is finding the right training program. The right school will prepare you with the skills, certifications, and clinical experience required to work in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings.

In Alaska, PCTs often get training through combined nursing assistant, phlebotomy, and EKG technician programs. This helps you learn direct patient care, basic lab work, and equipment monitoring in one course. Choosing an accredited school is critical, since many employers and certification bodies only accept students from approved programs.

How to Become a Patient Care Technician in Alaska

Most Patient Care Technician positions in Alaska require:

1. Completion of a state-approved training program
   This is often a Nursing Assistant (CNA) program with added PCT skills.
2. Passing the Alaska CNA certification exam
   CNA training is required for direct patient care roles in healthcare facilities.
3. Additional skills certification
   Many PCTs also hold credentials in phlebotomy and EKG technology.
4. Background check and immunization compliance
   Required for clinical rotations and employment.

Alaska Requirement: The Alaska Board of Nursing regulates Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs), which is the base certification needed for most PCT jobs in the state. You must pass a state competency exam after completing a Board-approved program.

Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Alaska

Here are some of the top schools and training providers offering programs that prepare you for Patient Care Technician roles in Alaska.

1. Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC) - Seward, AK

Program Type: Nurse Assistant Training with specialized modules
Length: Approximately 9-10 weeks
Highlights:

• State-approved CNA training
• Hands-on labs and clinical experience
• Prepares for CNA exam plus optional PCT skills training
• Strong employer partnerships in Alaska healthcare facilities

For program details: https://avtec.edu

2. University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) - School of Allied Health

Program Type: Certified Nurse Aide + Allied Health Skills
Length: 8-12 weeks (varies by schedule)
Highlights:

• Combines CNA training with optional phlebotomy certification
• On-campus simulation labs
• Access to UAA's career services and employer network
• Approved by the Alaska Board of Nursing

Learn more: https://www.uaa.alaska.edu

3. Alaska Technical Center - Kotzebue, AK

Program Type: Health Occupations / Nurse Aide Training
Length: Around 10 weeks
Highlights:

• Free or reduced tuition for qualifying residents
• Real-world clinical rotation in local facilities
• Strong focus on rural healthcare needs

More info: https://www.nwarctic.org/atc

4. Charter College - Anchorage, AK

Program Type: Medical Assistant Program with Patient Care Skills
Length: About 10 months (Certificate program)
Highlights:

• Covers front- and back-office healthcare skills
• Includes training in EKGs, injections, and lab testing
• Suitable for students seeking broader healthcare roles that include PCT duties

Program details: https://www.chartercollege.edu

5. Alaska CNA Training Centers - Multiple Locations

Program Type: Certified Nurse Aide with EKG/Phlebotomy combo
Length: Varies (typically 6-8 weeks)
Highlights:

• Fast-track programs designed for quick entry into the workforce
• Small class sizes and hands-on labs
• Meets state requirements for CNA testing

Search accredited CNA providers: Alaska Board of Nursing Approved CNA Programs

Program Comparison Table

Steps to Get Certified as a Patient Care Technician in Alaska

1. Choose an accredited program
   Select a school from the Alaska Board of Nursing's approved list.
2. Complete required coursework and clinical hours
   Programs include classroom instruction and supervised training.
3. Pass the Alaska CNA Exam
   This consists of a written test and skills evaluation.
4. Earn extra certifications
   Phlebotomy and EKG certifications will make you more competitive.
5. Apply for jobs in hospitals, clinics, and care facilities
   Highlight your full set of skills in patient care, lab work, and monitoring equipment.

Why Accreditation and Approval Matter

Only graduates of approved programs can take the state CNA exam. If your program isn't approved, you may not qualify to work in most healthcare settings in Alaska. Always verify approval on the Alaska Board of Nursing website before enrolling.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

If you are ready to start a healthcare career in Alaska, becoming a Patient Care Technician is a smart choice. You will need CNA certification and additional skills to stand out. Several schools in Alaska offer programs designed to combine these requirements.

Here's your next step:
Review the approved programs above, compare schedules and costs, and reach out to admissions offices. Ask about upcoming start dates, clinical placement opportunities, and any extra certifications offered. This will help you choose the school that best matches your career goals.

Sources:

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