Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Ohio

Becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in Ohio starts with the right training program. Good schools teach you the skills to assist nurses, care for patients, and handle essential clinical tasks. They prepare you for the certifications many employers expect.

In Ohio, several trade schools and community colleges offer PCT programs. The key is to choose one that fits your schedule, budget, and career goals.

What a Patient Care Technician Does

A PCT works in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. Tasks often include:

• Taking patient vital signs
• Helping with daily activities like bathing and feeding
• Drawing blood
• Collecting lab samples
• Performing ECGs
• Supporting nurses during procedures

Many PCTs also complete Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training and phlebotomy or EKG certifications during their program. These extra skills can make you more employable.

Training Requirements in Ohio

Ohio does not license PCTs directly. However, most healthcare employers require:

1. Completion of an accredited Patient Care Technician program
2. CNA certification recognized by the Ohio Department of Health
3. CPR/BLS certification from the American Heart Association or Red Cross
4. Background check and immunizations required for clinical work

The Ohio Department of Health requires that nursing assistant training programs be at least 75 hours, including 16 hours of clinical training. A PCT program will usually exceed this.¹

How Long Does PCT Training Take?

For most new students, a short-term certificate is the fastest path to employment.

Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Ohio

Here are some respected programs to consider. Always confirm current tuition, start dates, and enrollment requirements.

1. Columbus State Community College - Patient Care Technician Certificate

• Location: Columbus, OH
• Includes CNA training, EKG, and phlebotomy
• Offers flexible day and evening schedules

2. Cincinnati State Technical and Community College - PCT Program

• Location: Cincinnati, OH
• Combines nursing assistant coursework with advanced skills
• Clinical rotations at local hospitals

3. Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) - PCT Certificate

• Location: Cleveland, OH
• Program includes patient care skills, safety procedures, and basic medical terminology
• Strong partnerships with regional healthcare employers

4. Lorain County Community College - Patient Care Technician Training

• Location: Elyria, OH
• Emphasizes safety, infection control, and patient communication
• Prepares graduates for CNA and other certifications

5. Hondros College of Nursing - Patient Care Technician Program

• Multiple Ohio campuses
• Offers blended learning with in-person labs and online theory
• Focus on entry-level hospital and long-term care employment

How to Choose the Right Program

When comparing Ohio PCT schools, look for:

• State-recognized CNA training included in the program
• Hands-on clinical hours in real healthcare settings
• Certification exam preparation for EKG and phlebotomy
• Accredited and employer-trusted curriculum
• Flexible schedules if you need to keep working while studying

Steps to Become a Patient Care Technician in Ohio

1. Research accredited programs in your area.
2. Enroll and complete training-focus on attendance, especially during clinical rotations.
3. Earn required certifications, starting with CNA.
4. Apply for CPR/BLS certification from an approved provider.
5. Gather immunization and background check documents for employment.
6. Apply for entry-level PCT roles in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics.

Certification and Continuing Education

After you graduate, you may take certification exams such as:

• CNA - required for most patient care jobs in Ohio
• Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
• Certified EKG Technician (CET)

These can be taken through organizations like the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Employers may also offer ongoing training for specialized roles.

Career Outlook in Ohio

Healthcare support jobs, including patient care technicians, are in steady demand in Ohio. Hospitals, long-term care facilities, and rehabilitation centers often have ongoing hiring needs. A PCT role can also be a stepping stone to nursing or other medical careers.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for nursing assistants is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations in the coming years.²

Final Thoughts

If you want to work directly with patients and start in healthcare quickly, a Patient Care Technician program is a solid choice.

Here's what you should do next:

• Make a shortlist of 3-5 accredited Ohio PCT schools from the list above
• Contact each school to ask about tuition, schedules, and admission deadlines
• Enroll in a program that fits your timeline and career goals

Starting your training now means you could be working in a hospital, nursing home, or clinic within a year.

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