Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Kentucky

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want a stable healthcare career that's hands-on, becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a strong choice. In Kentucky, you can get trained in less than a year and move straight into the workforce. The key is choosing the right school.

Below is a breakdown of the best PCT programs in Kentucky and what you need to know before you enroll.

What a Patient Care Technician Does

A PCT assists nurses and doctors with direct patient care in hospitals, nursing homes, and dialysis centers. Daily work may include:

  • Checking vital signs
  • Drawing blood
  • Assisting with mobility
  • Helping patients with hygiene
  • Recording medical information

To work legally and effectively, you'll need proper training and a recognized certification.

Basic Requirements in Kentucky

Kentucky does not issue a separate PCT license. Instead, you must meet Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) standards and often also hold phlebotomy or EKG technician training depending on your employer's needs.

Note: Most healthcare facilities in Kentucky require you to be listed on the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry before hiring.

Typical Steps to Begin Work

  1. Complete an accredited PCT program
  2. Pass the Kentucky nurse aide competency evaluation
  3. Earn any additional certifications (like EKG or phlebotomy)
  4. Apply for jobs in hospitals, clinics, or long-term care settings

Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Kentucky

These programs are accredited or recognized by state and national healthcare bodies. Always confirm current tuition, schedules, and admission requirements directly with the school.

School Location Program Length Notable Features
Bluegrass Community & Technical College Lexington ~8 months Includes CNA, phlebotomy, and EKG certifications
Jefferson Community & Technical College Louisville 2 semesters Day and evening classes, clinical partnerships with major hospitals
Ashland Community and Technical College Ashland 2 semesters Small class sizes, emphasis on medical terminology and patient interaction
West Kentucky Community and Technical College Paducah 8-10 months Combination of classroom, lab, and hands-on clinical experience
Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College Cumberland & Middlesboro 1 year Prepares graduates for multiple certifications
Galen College of Nursing - Louisville Campus Louisville ~10 months Strong hospital network, modern lab facilities

How to Choose the Right Program

When comparing programs, look at:

  • Accreditation - Make sure it's recognized by the Kentucky Board of Nursing for nurse aide training.
  • Certifications Offered - Some programs only train you for CNA, others include EKG and phlebotomy.
  • Clinical Hours - Hands-on training is critical for building confidence on the job.
  • Schedule Options - Evening or weekend classes may help if you're working while training.
  • Job Placement Support - Some schools work directly with local hospitals to place graduates.

What You'll Learn

Most Kentucky PCT programs cover:

  • Anatomy and physiology basics
  • Patient care procedures
  • Infection control and safety
  • Vital sign measurement
  • EKG administration
  • Specimen collection and handling
  • Patient communication skills

Training usually combines classroom learning, lab practice, and supervised clinical rotations.

Certification and Exam Information

In Kentucky, becoming a PCT generally includes passing the Kentucky Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation. This test has two parts:

  1. Written or oral exam
  2. Skills demonstration

Once you pass, you'll be listed on the Kentucky Nurse Aide Registry maintained by the Kentucky Board of Nursing.

Additional certifications like Certified EKG Technician (CET) or Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) may require separate exams from approved testing agencies.

Job Outlook in Kentucky

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for healthcare support roles, including PCTs, is projected to grow in the coming years as the state's population ages. Hospitals, nursing facilities, and dialysis centers regularly post openings for qualified candidates.

Tips for Success in Training

  • Arrive early and prepared for class and clinical shifts
  • Practice your manual skills often - repetition builds speed and confidence
  • Learn common medical terms now to save time during the program
  • Treat clinical rotations as job interviews - many students get hired where they train

Costs and Financial Aid

Tuition varies by school, but many Kentucky community colleges offer in-state rates and financial aid. You can explore:

  • Federal Pell Grants
  • Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship (KEES) awards
  • Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding for eligible students

Contact the school's financial aid office for the most up-to-date information.

Next Steps

If you're ready to start:

  1. Make a list of your top 2-3 schools from the table above
  2. Call each school's admissions office to confirm requirements and deadlines
  3. Schedule a campus visit or virtual info session
  4. Apply early to secure a spot - popular programs fill quickly

Starting as a Patient Care Technician can be a smart path into the healthcare field. It combines fast training, essential skills, and plenty of options to move up, such as becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or registered nurse (RN) later on.

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