Updated August 13, 2025
If you want to work directly with patients and help them every day, becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a solid choice. In New Hampshire, PCTs are in demand in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health settings. The fastest way to start is by completing an approved training program.
Here's what you need to know to choose the best Patient Care Technician school in New Hampshire and meet the state's training requirements.
A PCT works alongside nurses and doctors to provide direct patient care. Duties often include:
These skills make PCTs valuable in many healthcare environments, especially where patient interaction is high.
New Hampshire does not license Patient Care Technicians as a separate profession. Most employers require PCTs to have training as a Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) plus additional skills in EKG and phlebotomy.
New Hampshire Board of Nursing requires LNAs to complete a state-approved nursing assistant training program and pass the competency exam.
That means most PCT programs here combine core nursing assistant training with extra modules, so you graduate ready for multiple roles.
Typical requirements before applying:
Here are some of the top options for training in the state. Each program offers a mix of classroom, lab, and clinical instruction.
| School / Training Provider | Location | Program Length | Offers LNA Training | Extra Skills Included |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester Community College | Manchester, NH | ~1 semester | Yes | EKG, phlebotomy |
| River Valley Community College | Claremont, NH | Varies | Yes | Phlebotomy |
| White Mountains Community College | Berlin, NH | Varies | Yes | EKG |
| American Red Cross - New Hampshire | Multiple sites | 4-8 weeks | Yes | Basic patient care |
| LNA Health Careers | Pembroke & Exeter, NH | 4-6 weeks | Yes | Career placement help |
Tip: Not all schools list "Patient Care Technician" as the program name. Look for combined LNA, phlebotomy, and EKG training when searching.
When comparing New Hampshire PCT schools, focus on:
For the most up-to-date LNA requirements, visit the New Hampshire Board of Nursing.
In New Hampshire, PCTs work in:
Because you'll have skills that overlap with multiple roles, your job prospects extend into many healthcare settings.
Training times and costs vary widely depending on the school. Some short programs finish in 6-8 weeks, while others take one semester or longer, especially if they include multiple certifications.
Average time to completion:
| Program Type | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Standalone LNA program | 6-8 weeks |
| PCT with LNA + phlebotomy + EKG | 1 semester |
| Degree or diploma with PCT focus | 1 year |
Remember to factor in exam fees, application fees, uniforms, and any required books.
New Hampshire's healthcare sector is growing, and skilled patient care staff are needed in every county. Training locally means:
Becoming a Patient Care Technician in New Hampshire is straightforward if you follow the right steps. Find a state-approved LNA program that includes or allows you to add phlebotomy and EKG training. The combination of these skills will make you a strong candidate for many jobs.
Here's what you should do next:
Local training means you'll be job-ready faster, with the skills New Hampshire employers are looking for. If you want hands-on healthcare work and enjoy helping people, this path is worth taking.
Sources:
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