Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Indiana

If you want to work in healthcare without spending years in school, training as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) could be the right path. In Indiana, several accredited schools offer hands-on programs that prepare you for certification and a job in a hospital, clinic, or long-term care setting.

Here's what you need to know to choose the right school and get started.

What a Patient Care Technician Does

Patient Care Technicians work directly with patients under the supervision of nurses and doctors. This includes:

• Checking vital signs
• Assisting with daily activities like bathing and feeding
• Drawing blood
• Performing EKGs
• Helping with mobility exercises

The role combines nursing assistant, phlebotomy, and EKG skills, making it versatile in a healthcare setting.

Indiana Requirements for Patient Care Technicians

Indiana does not have a separate state-issued license for PCTs. However:

Most employers in Indiana require PCTs to hold a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credential and additional training or certification in phlebotomy and EKG.

To work as a CNA in Indiana, you must:

1. Complete a state-approved Nurse Aide Training Program (NATP).
2. Pass the Indiana State Department of Health CNA competency exam.
3. Maintain an active listing on the Indiana Nurse Aide Registry.

Patient Care Technician programs often build on the CNA requirement by including phlebotomy and EKG modules.

Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Indiana

Below are some of the most reputable accredited schools offering PCT training in Indiana. Always confirm program details directly with the school, as requirements and schedules can change.

1. Ivy Tech Community College

• Locations: Multiple campuses statewide
• Program Length: Typically 1-2 semesters
• Includes: CNA preparation, phlebotomy, EKG training
• Format: In-person with clinical rotations
• Why choose it: Ivy Tech is Indiana's largest public community college system with strong ties to local healthcare employers.

2. Fortis College (Indianapolis Campus)

• Program Length: About 9 months
• Includes: Basic patient care, EKG, phlebotomy, and medical terminology
• Format: Classroom and hands-on lab training
• Why choose it: Offers career placement assistance and flexible scheduling.

3. Ross Medical Education Center (Fort Wayne, Evansville)

• Program Length: Around 30 weeks
• Includes: Clinical skills, phlebotomy certification prep, EKG, and CNA-ready coursework
• Format: Daytime or evening classes
• Why choose it: Focused healthcare curriculum with smaller class sizes.

4. MedTech College (Indianapolis, Greenwood)

• Program Length: Varies; often under 1 year
• Includes: CNA certification preparation, lab skills, EKG, and blood draws
• Format: In-person with supervised clinicals
• Why choose it: Strong emphasis on lab and clinical training.

5. Vincennes University

• Program Length: Certificate programs, generally 1 year or less
• Includes: CNA, phlebotomy, EKG technician, and related allied health coursework
• Format: Campus-based with clinical site placements
• Why choose it: Public university with affordable tuition and multiple healthcare program options.

Patient Care Technician Program Comparison

How to Choose the Right Program

When comparing Indiana PCT programs, look for:

• Accreditation - Make sure the school is accredited and the CNA program is state-approved.
• Clinical Hours - Indiana CNA programs require at least 75 hours of training with at least 16 hours in a clinical setting.
• Certification Prep - The program should prepare you for CNA, phlebotomy, and EKG certifications.
• Location and Schedule - Choose one that fits your commute and availability.
• Job Placement Rates - Schools with strong employer connections may offer better opportunities after graduation.

Steps to Start Your Career as a PCT in Indiana

1. Research and apply to a state-approved CNA program with added PCT training.
2. Complete the required training hours and coursework.
3. Pass the Indiana CNA competency exam to gain placement on the Nurse Aide Registry.
4. Earn additional certifications like phlebotomy and EKG technician.
5. Apply for entry-level positions in hospitals, nursing homes, or clinics.
6. Maintain your certifications through continuing education.

Continuing Education and Career Growth

After gaining experience as a PCT, you could move into other healthcare roles like:

• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Medical Assistant
• Surgical Technologist

Many Indiana schools offer bridge programs that let you build on your PCT training.

Summary and Next Steps

Patient Care Technician training in Indiana gives you the skills to help patients directly and work as part of a medical team. Most programs take less than a year, include CNA certification, and teach phlebotomy and EKG skills.

Here's your next step: contact the schools listed above, verify they are currently accredited and state-approved, and confirm program schedules and costs. Once enrolled, focus on completing your training, earning certifications, and applying for jobs in a healthcare setting.

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