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If you want to work directly with patients in a hospital, clinic, or long-term care facility, becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a solid career move. Illinois has several strong training programs that prepare you for the skills and certification tests you'll need.
Here's how to find the right school, what to expect in training, and the top options in the state.
What a Patient Care Technician Does
A Patient Care Technician works under the supervision of nurses to provide basic care. This can include:
- Taking vital signs
- Assisting with daily living activities
- Collecting lab specimens
- Performing EKGs
- Providing basic wound care
Some programs also cross-train you in phlebotomy and dialysis technician skills. This makes you more valuable to employers.
In Illinois, patient care technicians are not licensed separately. Employers often want candidates with a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) credential plus additional PCT training.
Training Requirements in Illinois
Illinois does not have a state license for PCTs, but employers generally require:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of an approved CNA program
- Extra PCT coursework in skills like phlebotomy and EKG
- CPR certification from the American Heart Association or Red Cross
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, to become a CNA you must complete a state-approved training program and pass a competency exam.
Choosing a Good Illinois PCT School
When comparing schools, look at:
- Program accreditation
- CNA + PCT training combination
- Hands-on clinical hours
- Job placement support
- Flexible scheduling for working students
It's best to choose a program that prepares you for both CNA status and PCT-specific skills. This approach will meet most Illinois employer requirements.
Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Illinois
Here are some reputable options that consistently prepare students for patient care roles.
1. Malcolm X College (Chicago)
- Program type: Basic Certificate in Patient Care Technician
- Length: About 1 semester full-time
- Includes CNA training, EKG, and phlebotomy
- Strong clinical placement network with Chicago hospitals
2. College of DuPage (Glen Ellyn)
- Program type: Patient Care Technician Certificate
- Length: 2 semesters
- Teaches advanced patient care skills plus dialysis training option
- Requires CNA certification before entry into core PCT courses
3. Midwest Technical Institute (Springfield & East Peoria)
- Program type: Medical Assisting with PCT emphasis
- Length: Around 9 months
- Combines administrative medical training with direct patient care
- Hands-on lab and externship included
4. Moraine Valley Community College (Palos Hills)
- Program type: PCT Certificate
- Length: 2 semesters
- EKG, phlebotomy, CNA, and patient care skills blended
- Partnership with local healthcare employers for externship and employment
5. Illinois Central College (Peoria)
- Program type: Patient Care Technician Certificate
- Length: 1-2 semesters, depending on pace
- CNA training required for enrollment in program
- Courses aligned with national certification exams
Typical Program Length and Components
| Program Component | Typical Duration | Notes |
| CNA Training | 4-8 weeks | Needed before or during PCT program |
| EKG Technician | 4-6 weeks | May be included with PCT coursework |
| Phlebotomy | 4-8 weeks | Often run alongside EKG training |
| Clinical Externship | 2-4 weeks | Required for certification preparation |
Steps to Start Your PCT Career in Illinois
- Earn your high school diploma or GED
- Complete a CNA training program approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health
- Pass the CNA competency exam and get on the state registry
- Finish a PCT program with EKG and phlebotomy components
- Get CPR certified
- Apply for hospital, clinic, or nursing facility positions
Employers may also value optional certifications like the CPCT/A (Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant) from the National Healthcareer Association.
Tips for Success in Training
- Choose a school close to your clinic site to cut travel time
- Ask about night or weekend classes if you're working
- Use the clinical rotations to network with potential employers
- Keep your CPR and CNA credentials current
Summary and Next Steps
To become a patient care technician in Illinois, you'll need to start with CNA training, then add skills in EKG, phlebotomy, and basic clinical care. The best schools combine all these elements into one program and include hands-on clinical experience.
Next step: Contact two or three of the schools listed above. Ask for their current start dates, tuition costs, and if they include CNA training as part of the program. Then, choose the one that fits your schedule and career goals.
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