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If you want to become a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in New York, the right training school makes the difference. A good program will prepare you for certification, give you hands-on clinical skills, and help you feel confident on your first day at work.
This guide covers some of the best accredited PCT programs in New York, how long training takes, and what to look for before you enroll.
What a Patient Care Technician Does
A PCT works closely with nurses and doctors to provide direct care. Duties often include:
- Taking vital signs
- Drawing blood
- Assisting with daily living activities
- Collecting lab specimens
- Providing basic wound care
In New York, most PCTs work in hospitals, nursing homes, or outpatient clinics.
To work in the field, you'll need both technical skills and patient communication skills.
Training and Certification Requirements in New York
New York does not require state licensing for Patient Care Technicians, but most employers expect a recognized certification such as the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) CPCT/A or similar.
Important: To take the NHA CPCT/A exam, you must complete an approved training program or have equivalent work experience.
Typical requirements include:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of an accredited PCT program
- CPR certification
- Clinical externship hours
How Long Does It Take to Become a PCT?
Here's a breakdown of typical training lengths in New York schools:
| Training Program | Duration | Includes Clinical |
| Full-time day program | 4-6 months | Yes |
| Part-time evening/weekend program | 6-9 months | Yes |
| Accelerated bootcamp | 2-3 months | Yes |
If you're already a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), some schools offer PCT bridge programs that take less time.
Best Patient Care Technician Schools in New York
Here are some reputable options to consider. All are either accredited or have New York State Education Department-approved programs.
1. Medgar Evers College - CUNY (Brooklyn)
- Program: Patient Care Technician Certificate
- Highlights: Offers EKG, phlebotomy, and CNA skills in one program
- Length: About 6 months (part-time)
- Why Choose: Well-regarded CUNY school with job placement support
2. Manhattan Institute - NYC
- Program: PCT Training Program
- Highlights: Focuses on hospital-based patient care, strong clinical training
- Length: 4-6 months
- Why Choose: Convenient Manhattan location, small class sizes
- Program: Patient Care Technician Certificate
- Highlights: Combines classroom and hands-on training, includes certification prep
- Length: Around 6 months
- Why Choose: Affordable tuition, part of CUNY system
4. Access Careers - Hempstead
- Program: PCT Training
- Highlights: Includes EKG and phlebotomy training, externship placements
- Length: Flexible schedules
- Why Choose: Multiple start dates, Nassau County location
5. Mildred Elley School - NYC & Albany
- Program: Patient Care Technician Certificate
- Highlights: Career services support, financial aid available for those who qualify
- Length: Varies by schedule
- Why Choose: Two New York locations, strong alumni network
How to Choose the Right School
When comparing PCT schools, consider:
- Accreditation and state approval
- Class schedules that fit your life
- Clinical externship opportunities
- Certification exam preparation
- Job placement assistance
Ask schools:
- "What's your exam pass rate?"
- "Where do graduates typically work?"
- "Do you help with resume and interview prep?"
Steps to Become a Patient Care Technician in New York
- Earn your high school diploma or GED
- Research accredited programs (see list above)
- Apply and enroll in a PCT training program
- Complete clinical hours during training
- Obtain CPR certification (often included in the program)
- Pass your certification exam (such as NHA CPCT/A)
- Apply for PCT jobs in hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes
Career Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics lists PCT-related roles under nursing assistants and orderlies, with steady projected growth across the country due to an aging population and the need for long-term care services. That demand is reflected in New York's healthcare sector.
Summary - Choosing Your Next Step
If you want a career in direct patient care without spending years in school, becoming a Patient Care Technician is a strong choice.
Start by picking a reputable, accredited New York program that prepares you for national certification.
Here's what you should do next:
- Shortlist two or three schools from this list
- Call and ask about program length, costs, and upcoming start dates
- Confirm they offer the clinical training required for certification
The sooner you begin, the sooner you can be on the floor helping patients and working alongside nurses in one of New York's many healthcare facilities.
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