Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Mississippi

If you want to work directly with patients but don't want to spend years in medical school, training as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is one of the fastest ways to enter healthcare. The right school will give you the skills to provide bedside care, take vital signs, assist with medical procedures, and support nurses in a variety of settings.

Here's what you need to know about finding the best patient care technician schools in Mississippi and what steps to take to start your career.

What a Patient Care Technician Does

Patient Care Technicians work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and dialysis facilities. Your daily work might include:

• Taking and recording vital signs
• Helping patients with bathing, eating, and mobility
• Collecting lab samples
• Performing basic EKGs
• Assisting in dialysis treatment
• Communicating patient needs to nurses

Most PCTs are cross-trained in nurse aide skills, phlebotomy, and EKG procedures.

Licensing and Certification in Mississippi

Mississippi does not issue a separate PCT license. However, most employers require one or more of the following:

• Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) credential through the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry
• Phlebotomy certification from a recognized organization
• EKG Technician certification from an industry-recognized body

Mississippi CNA Rule: You must complete a state-approved nurse aide training program and pass the competency evaluation to be listed on the Mississippi Nurse Aide Registry.
Source: Mississippi State Department of Health

Some PCT programs bundle all three skill areas so you are job-ready after graduation.

How to Choose a PCT School in Mississippi

When comparing schools, look for:

1. State Approval - Especially for the nurse aide portion of the training.
2. Accreditation - From agencies like the Council on Occupational Education (COE) or Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
3. Hands-on Clinical Training - Programs with internships or clinical rotations.
4. Certification Prep - Courses designed to prepare you for CNA, phlebotomy, and EKG exams.
5. Flexible Scheduling - Day, night, or weekend classes if you need to work while training.

Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Mississippi

This list highlights reputable training options in Mississippi. Contact each school directly for current tuition and scheduling.

Steps to Become a Patient Care Technician in Mississippi

Follow these steps to start working as a PCT:

1. Choose an approved training program
   Pick a school with state-approved CNA training plus PCT-specific coursework.
2. Complete required training hours
   Mississippi requires CNA students to complete a minimum of 75 hours, with at least 16 hours in clinical settings before patient contact.
3. Pass your CNA exam
   The test includes a written or oral section and a skills demonstration.
4. Earn additional certifications
   Many PCTs also earn phlebotomy and EKG credentials to be more competitive.
5. Apply for jobs in healthcare facilities
   Hospitals, nursing homes, and dialysis centers hire PCTs year-round.
6. Keep certifications current
   Renew CNA registration every two years with proof of paid work as a nurse aide.

PCT Career Outlook in Mississippi

The demand for patient care roles is projected to remain strong as the population ages and healthcare services expand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in the nursing assistant category are expected to grow faster than average in the coming years¹.

The PCT role can also be a step toward other healthcare careers, such as licensed practical nurse (LPN), registered nurse (RN), or medical assistant.

Tips for Success in Training

• Practice your communication skills - Much of this job involves talking with patients and team members.
• Take infection control seriously - Follow all safety protocols from the start.
• Show up to clinicals prepared - Punctuality and professionalism are noticed by employers.
• Ask for feedback - Instructors and clinical supervisors can help you improve before certification testing.

Summary and Next Steps

To get started as a patient care technician in Mississippi, your priority should be enrolling in a state-approved training program that covers CNA requirements and adds phlebotomy and EKG skills. Completing this combination will make you more attractive to employers.

Start by contacting programs at Hinds Community College, Coahoma Community College, or Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. Ask about enrollment deadlines, class schedules, and clinical rotation sites. Once you have your training and certifications, you'll be ready to apply for jobs in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and specialty clinics.

Next step: Visit the Mississippi State Department of Health Nurse Aide Registry to review approved CNA programs and confirm licensing requirements before you enroll.

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