Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Vermont
If you want to start a hands-on career helping patients in Vermont, training as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a smart move. These professionals work alongside nurses and doctors to provide direct patient care in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics.
In most cases, becoming a PCT in Vermont starts with completing an accredited training program. The right school will prepare you for certification, teach you clinical skills, and connect you with employers through externships.
Here's how to find the best option for you.
What a Patient Care Technician Does
A PCT combines the roles of nursing assistant, phlebotomist, and EKG technician. Training typically covers:
- Basic patient care and safety
- Taking vital signs
- Blood draws and specimen handling
- Performing EKG tests
- Assisting with mobility and daily activities
- Infection control and communication skills
While Vermont does not have a separate state license for PCTs, most employers require certification such as CPCT (Certified Patient Care Technician) through a national testing body.
Note: In Vermont, PCTs often first train as Licensed Nursing Assistants (LNAs), because most employers expect completion of an LNA program before adding PCT skills.
Steps to Become a Patient Care Technician in Vermont
Here's the usual process in Vermont:
- Complete high school or a GED.
- Choose an accredited training program in patient care technology or a related field.
- Complete state-approved LNA training (if not already licensed) to meet Vermont requirements for patient care roles.
- Finish clinical hours as part of your program.
- Pass a national certification exam such as CPCT.
- Apply for jobs in hospitals, rehab centers, and long-term care facilities.
Best Patient Care Technician Training Options in Vermont
Below are some of the strongest options for PCT or closely related training in Vermont. Since "Patient Care Technician" programs are often bundled with LNA and phlebotomy training in the state, you'll find many under nursing or allied health categories.
1. Community College of Vermont (CCV)
Location: Multiple campuses statewide Program Type: Allied Health Pathway with LNA preparation Details: CCV offers an Allied Health program that can be customized to include LNA certification, medical terminology, and courses in EKG and phlebotomy. This can be used as a foundation for PCT skills.
- Flexible scheduling, including online components
- Hands-on lab and clinical placement
- Credits may transfer toward nursing degrees
2. Vermont Technical College (VTC)
Location: Randolph Center and Williston Program Type: Nurse Assisting Certificate + Allied Health Electives Details: VTC's Nurse Assisting program prepares you for the Vermont LNA exam. You can then take additional courses in EKG and phlebotomy, positioning you for a PCT role.
- State-approved LNA program
- Small class sizes for hands-on training
- Pathway into advanced nursing programs
3. Stafford Technical Center
Location: Rutland Program Type: Health Careers Program with LNA and lab skills training Details: This program is ideal for high school students or adult learners. It includes safety, patient care, and lab testing skills. Clinical placement occurs in local healthcare facilities.
- Strong community employer connections
- Includes CPR and First Aid certification
- Prepares for multiple healthcare career paths
Visit Stafford Technical Center
4. Randolph Technical Career Center
Location: Randolph Program Type: Health Careers Program with patient care and clinical training Details: Offers LNA preparation plus medical lab and EKG training. Graduates are ready to work in hospital or long-term care settings as entry-level patient care staff.
Learn more about Randolph Technical Center
5. North Country Career Center
Location: Newport Program Type: Licensed Nursing Assistant program with clinical skills Details: Focused on practical patient care skills needed in hospitals and rehabilitation centers. Adult learners welcome.
Visit North Country Career Center
Comparing Training Programs
| School / Program | Includes LNA Training | EKG Training Available | Phlebotomy Training Available | Flexible Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCV | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| VTC | Yes | Yes | Yes | Some options |
| Stafford Tech | Yes | Partial | Partial | Limited |
| Randolph Career | Yes | Yes | Yes | Limited |
| North Country | Yes | No | No | Limited |
Choosing the Right School
When comparing programs, look for:
- Accreditation and state approval
- Clinical placement options in your preferred setting
- Extra skill modules like EKG or phlebotomy
- Support for certification prep
- career services assistance
Some schools combine LNA and PCT skills into one pathway. Others expect you to complete LNA first, then add specific certifications.
Certification After Training
Most Vermont employers prefer or require national certification. Common options include:
- CPCT-A (Certified Patient Care Technician - Advanced) through National Healthcareer Association
- CPT (Certified Phlebotomy Technician)
- CET (Certified EKG Technician)
Check with the school to see which exams their program prepares you for.
Final Tips
Starting your PCT training in Vermont is straightforward if you know the steps and pick the right school. Here's what you should do now:
- Make a shortlist of schools from the table above.
- Contact each one to confirm current program offerings.
- Ask about costs, schedules, and clinical site locations.
- Verify the program prepares you for both Vermont LNA licensure and national PCT certification.
Once you've completed training, you'll have foundational skills to apply for patient care roles. Career paths and outcomes vary by employer and region.
Find accredited patient care technician programs in Vermont, compare campus and online options, and learn the exact steps to qualify. This guide covers typical program length, admission requirements, certification or licensing, tuition, and job outlook so you can choose the best path in your area.
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