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If you want to break into healthcare in Delaware, training as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is one of the fastest ways to start. PCTs are cross-trained in multiple roles-providing direct patient care, assisting nurses, and performing basic medical procedures.
Your first step is choosing the right accredited school. The quality of your training program matters. It impacts whether you qualify for national certifications and how prepared you'll be when you step onto the hospital floor.
What to Look for in a Patient Care Technician Program
When comparing Delaware schools, focus on these essentials:
- Accreditation - Look for schools accredited by state-recognized agencies.
- Certification Prep - Confirm they prepare you for the CPCT/A through NHA or similar credentialing exams.
- Hands-on Training - Strong programs include lab practice and supervised clinical hours at local healthcare facilities.
- Program Length - Most PCT programs take 4-8 months. Part-time options may be available.
- Admission Requirements - Usually a high school diploma or GED.
Delaware law does not license PCTs directly, but most employers require certification and proof of competency in clinical skills.
Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Delaware
Here are some of the top programs in the state, based on accreditation, curriculum, and employer connections.
1. Delaware Technical Community College (Delaware Tech)
Location: Multiple campuses (Wilmington, Dover, Georgetown)
Program: Patient Care Technician Certificate
Key Points:
- Covers nursing assistant, phlebotomy, and EKG training.
- Includes supervised clinical practice in local hospitals.
- Prepares graduates for NHA CPCT/A, CNA, and other relevant credentials.
Learn more on Delaware Tech's site.
2. Polytech Adult Education
Location: Woodside
Program: Patient Care Technician Program
Key Points:
- Evening and weekend classes for working students.
- Includes CPR certification and test preparation for national PCT exams.
- Strong community employer network for internships.
Program details available from Polytech Adult Education.
3. Dawn Career Institute
Location: Newark
Program: Patient Care Technician Diploma
Key Points:
- Accelerated program with career services support.
- Training includes EKG, phlebotomy, vital signs, catheter care, and more.
- Offers hybrid learning with on-campus skills labs.
Visit Dawn Career Institute's PCT program page.
4. Sussex Tech Adult Division
Location: Georgetown
Program: Patient Care Technician Training
Key Points:
- Part-time, flexible scheduling.
- Focus on preparation for CNA, EKG Technician, and Phlebotomist certifications.
- Clinicals completed at area healthcare providers.
See Sussex Tech's adult education offerings.
Program Lengths and Structure
| School | Program Length | Clinical Hours | Certification Prep |
| Delaware Tech | 6-8 months | Yes | CNA, CPCT/A, EKG, Phlebotomy |
| Polytech Adult Education | ~6 months | Yes | CPCT/A, CPR |
| Dawn Career Institute | 9 months | Yes | CPCT/A, EKG, Phlebotomy |
| Sussex Tech Adult Division | 6 months | Yes | CNA, EKG, Phlebotomy |
Steps to Become a Patient Care Technician in Delaware
- Choose an accredited program - Select one that meets national standards and includes clinical training.
- Complete the required coursework - Cover topics like anatomy, infection control, patient safety, and laboratory skills.
- Finish supervised clinical hours - Gain hands-on patient care experience.
- Pass your certification exam - Most graduates take the NHA CPCT/A or a related credential.
- Apply for healthcare jobs - Hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics actively hire PCTs.
Certification and Employment Requirements
While Delaware does not mandate a state license for PCTs, employers look for:
- CNA credential from the Delaware Division of Long Term Care Residents Protection for nursing assistant duties.
- National certification from NHA or another recognized body.
- Current CPR/BLS certification from the American Heart Association.
Tip: If you plan to work as a nursing assistant in Delaware, you must be listed on the state CNA registry before starting employment.
Why Certification Matters
Certification shows you meet professional standards. It can make you more competitive when applying for jobs. It also proves you have skills in phlebotomy, EKG, patient monitoring, and basic nursing care.
National certification agencies for PCTs include:
- National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
- American Medical Certification Association (AMCA)
Choosing the Right School for You
When visiting schools or reviewing their websites, ask:
- How many hours are spent in clinical training?
- What is the student pass rate on national certification exams?
- Does the school have partnerships with local healthcare employers?
- Are financial aid or payment plans available?
Summary - Your Next Step
If you want to work directly with patients and build a path into nursing or allied health careers, becoming a Patient Care Technician in Delaware is a smart move. Start by picking an accredited, hands-on training program like those at Delaware Tech, Polytech Adult Education, Dawn Career Institute, or Sussex Tech.
Here's what you should do next:
- Shortlist two or three schools from this list.
- Contact their admissions departments about costs, start dates, and certification prep.
- Apply early-class sizes are often limited.
With the right training, you could be employment-ready in less than a year and qualified to support patients in hospitals, long-term care, and clinical settings across Delaware.
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