Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Arizona

If you want to work directly with patients in a hospital, clinic, or long-term care setting, becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is one of the fastest ways into the healthcare field.

In Arizona, you can complete PCT training in under a year at accredited trade schools and community colleges. The right program will prepare you for national certification and give you hands-on clinical experience so you're ready to work.

This guide lists the best Patient Care Technician schools in Arizona, explains the certifications you'll need, and shows you what to check before you enroll.

What a Patient Care Technician Does

A Patient Care Technician works alongside nurses and doctors to provide direct patient support. Duties can include:

• Taking vital signs
• Assisting with basic medical procedures
• Helping patients with daily activities
• Collecting lab specimens
• Monitoring patient conditions

Many PCTs also complete additional certifications, like phlebotomy or EKG technician, which can expand job opportunities.

Arizona PCT Certification Requirements

Arizona does not have a separate state license for Patient Care Technicians. However, most employers require a national certification, typically the Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

Important: To sit for the NHA CPCT/A exam, you must complete an approved training program or have equivalent work experience.

Some employers may also require you to be a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Arizona. CNA licensing in Arizona is handled by the Arizona State Board of Nursing (www.azbn.gov).

How to Choose the Best PCT School in Arizona

When evaluating Patient Care Technician programs, check for:

• Accreditation - This ensures your education meets industry standards.
• Clinical Hours - Hands-on training in a real healthcare setting is essential.
• Exam Prep - Make sure the program prepares you for national certification.
• Additional Skills - Phlebotomy, EKG monitoring, and basic first aid training can improve your job prospects.
• Job Placement Assistance - Some schools offer direct hiring connections with local hospitals and clinics.

Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Arizona

Here are some of the top PCT training providers based on accreditation, reputation, and program completeness.

1. Pima Medical Institute - Patient Care Technician Certificate Program

• Location: Phoenix, Mesa, Tucson
• Program Length: Approximately 8 months
• Highlights: Combines CNA training with advanced skills in phlebotomy and EKG. Includes clinical externship.
• Accreditation: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)
• Website: https://pmi.edu

2. Brookline College - Patient Care Technician Training

• Location: Phoenix and Tempe
• Program Length: 34 weeks
• Highlights: Flexible scheduling, certification exam prep, and multiple healthcare skill modules.
• Accreditation: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)
• Website: https://www.brooklinecollege.edu

3. Arizona Medical Training Institute (AMTI)

• Location: Mesa
• Program Length: Varies; CNA + PCT add-on courses available
• Highlights: Offers CNA, phlebotomy, and EKG modules that can be combined into a comprehensive PCT education pathway.
• Accreditation: State-approved CNA training, recognized for national exam eligibility
• Website: https://arizonamedicaltraininginstitute.com

4. GateWay Community College - Nursing Assistant Program with Advanced Skills

• Location: Phoenix
• Program Length: One semester CNA program + additional skill certifications
• Highlights: Affordable tuition, Maricopa Community Colleges network, strong clinical partnerships.
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Arizona State Board of Nursing approval for CNA
• Website: https://www.gatewaycc.edu

5. East Valley Medical College

• Location: Mesa
• Program Length: Flexible schedules; modular learning
• Highlights: Small classes, hands-on labs, CNA and phlebotomy training available.
• Accreditation: State-approved and exam-eligible
• Website: https://evmcollege.com

Training Program Comparison Table

Steps to Become a Patient Care Technician in Arizona

1. Choose an Accredited Program
   Ensure it includes CNA training if required by your target employers.

2. Complete Classroom and Clinical Training
   Expect both lab practice and real-world patient care hours.

3. Pass Your Certification Exam
   Most PCTs take the CPCT/A exam through the NHA.

4. Apply for CNA Certification (if needed)
   Submit your application to the Arizona State Board of Nursing.

5. Start Applying for Jobs
   Hospitals, rehab centers, home health agencies, and clinics hire PCTs.

Career Outlook for Patient Care Technicians

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics classifies PCTs under nursing assistants and orderlies. Employment in this category is projected to grow in coming years due to an aging population and increased demand for healthcare services¹.

Summary and Next Step

If you're ready to work directly with patients in a fast-paced healthcare setting, completing a Patient Care Technician program in Arizona is a direct route to employment. Start by:

• Comparing accredited schools near you
• Checking if the program includes CNA training
• Making sure clinical hours are built into the schedule

Here's what to do next: Contact at least two of the schools on this list, ask about class schedules and costs, and tour the campus or training facility.

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