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If you want a hands-on healthcare job where you work closely with patients, becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a great option. Maine has several schools and training programs that can prepare you for this role. The right program will give you the skills and clinical experience employers expect in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Here's what you need to know to choose the best school and start your training.
What a Patient Care Technician Does
A PCT works directly with patients to help with daily activities, basic medical procedures, and monitoring. The job can include:
- Taking vital signs
- Assisting with mobility
- Drawing blood
- Collecting lab samples
- Helping patients with bathing and eating
- Recording medical information for nurses and doctors
PCT training in Maine usually combines classroom instruction with clinical work. Most programs also prepare you for Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credentials and may include phlebotomy and EKG training.
How to Become a Patient Care Technician in Maine
There's no single PCT license at the state level, but most employers in Maine require:
- Completion of an accredited training program - Often includes CNA training.
- State CNA registry listing - Managed by the Maine Department of Licensing and Regulatory Services.
- CPR and First Aid certification - Usually from the American Heart Association or Red Cross.
- Additional skills training - Phlebotomy, EKG, or dialysis care depending on the workplace.
In Maine, CNAs must complete a state-approved program and pass a competency evaluation exam before working with patients.
- Maine Department of Health and Human Services
Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Maine
Here are some top options for PCT training in the state. Always verify current course details with the school.
1. Eastern Maine Community College (Bangor)
- Program: CNA & Patient Care Technician Track
- Length: About 1-2 semesters depending on chosen certifications
- Includes: CNA certification prep, EKG, phlebotomy
- Website: https://www.emcc.edu
This program is designed for students who want a broader skill set and more job options after graduation.
2. Southern Maine Community College (South Portland)
- Program: Certified Nursing Assistant Plus
- Length: 8-16 weeks depending on schedule
- Includes: CNA training, EKG, phlebotomy modules
- Website: https://www.smccme.edu
A strong choice for students in southern Maine who want affordable tuition and clinical placements in local hospitals.
3. Central Maine Community College (Auburn)
- Program: CNA and PCT Skills Certificate
- Length: 1 semester
- Includes: CNA registry preparation, blood draw, vital signs monitoring
- Website: https://www.cmcc.edu
Compact schedule ideal for those transitioning quickly into healthcare work.
4. Northern Maine Community College (Presque Isle)
- Program: CNA with PCT Skills Training
- Length: Variable - often offered in the fall and spring
- Includes: CNA training, clinical rotation, patient support techniques
- Website: https://www.nmcc.edu
Good option for students in northern Maine seeking fast entry into hospital or nursing home positions.
5. KVCC - Kennebec Valley Community College (Fairfield)
- Program: Comprehensive CNA & PCT Preparation
- Length: 12-16 weeks
- Includes: Basic patient care, training for advanced patient monitoring equipment
- Website: https://www.kvcc.me.edu
Combines classroom learning with extensive lab practice.
Typical Program Lengths
| Program Type | Length |
| CNA only | 4-8 weeks |
| CNA + EKG + Phlebotomy (PCT Prep) | 12-20 weeks |
| PCT with additional specialty training | 1-2 semesters |
Choosing the Right School
When comparing programs, look for:
- State approval - Check the Maine CNA Registry for approved CNA programs.
- Clinical hours - The state requires at least 70 clinical hours for CNA certification.
- Additional certifications - EKG or phlebotomy can make you more employable.
- Location and schedule - Some schools offer nights or weekends.
- Job placement support - Many community colleges have partnerships with local employers.
Licensing and Registry Steps in Maine
- Complete a state-approved nurse aide training program.
- Pass the Maine CNA competency evaluation exam.
- Submit application for the CNA registry through the Maine Department of Health and Human Services.
- Maintain active status with continuing education as required.
Career Path After Training
Once certified and listed on the CNA registry, you can apply for PCT roles in hospitals, dialysis centers, or rehabilitation facilities. Some PCTs later train to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs).
PCT experience is valuable if you plan to move up in healthcare, since it builds direct patient care and clinical skills.
Final Advice
In Maine, starting as a Patient Care Technician is one of the fastest ways to get into healthcare. You'll get hands-on patient experience and skills you can build on for years.
Here's what to do next:
- Contact at least two of the schools listed above.
- Ask about upcoming start dates, tuition, and included certifications.
- Confirm that the CNA portion is state-approved.
- Review the clinical schedule to be sure it works for you.
Getting trained and certified takes only a few months, and you could be working in a patient care role soon after.
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