How To Become a Patient Care Technician in Georgia 2025

Are you interested in a career that lets you make a difference in patients' lives every day? If so, becoming a patient care technician (PCT) in Georgia could be the perfect fit. This guide will walk you through how to become a patient care technician, including patient care technician educational requirements, training programs, certification, and the skills you'll need to succeed. Whether you're just starting out or looking to change careers, you'll find practical steps and helpful information to get started in this growing field.

What Is a Patient Care Technician?

A patient care technician is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of nurses or doctors to provide direct care and support to patients in various medical settings. PCTs play a crucial role in ensuring patient comfort and serve as a bridge between patients and the clinical team.

What Does a Patient Care Technician Do?

Patient care technician duties center on supporting patients' daily needs and assisting healthcare teams with clinical care. These professionals help with personal hygiene, feeding, and mobility, while also monitoring and recording vital signs, collecting specimens, and performing basic medical procedures like EKGs or blood glucose checks. They keep patient rooms clean and sanitized, ensure proper documentation, and report any changes in patient condition to nurses or doctors. Patient care technicians may also assist with transporting patients, preparing medical equipment, and providing emotional support to both patients and their families. Their multifaceted role is essential for maintaining patient comfort and safety.

How To Become a Patient Care Technician in Georgia

Becoming a patient care technician in Georgia involves a series of educational, training, and certification steps. The process ensures you have the necessary skills and credentials to provide quality care in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. Here's a detailed breakdown of each step required to start your career as a PCT in Georgia.

1. Obtain a High School Diploma or GED

The first requirement is to have a high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED. This is a mandatory prerequisite for enrolling in any patient care technician training program and for taking certification exams.

2. Complete a State-Approved Patient Care Technician Training Program

Enroll in and successfully complete a patient care technician training program approved by the state of Georgia. These programs are offered at technical colleges, allied health institutes, and career training centers. Training typically covers essential topics such as basic nursing skills, phlebotomy, EKG, medical terminology, infection control, and patient care procedures. Programs usually combine classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical externships, and can last from eight weeks to 36 weeks depending on the institution.

3. Obtain Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Certification (if required)

Some Georgia training programs require you to obtain CNA certification before or during your PCT training. CNA certification involves completing a separate approved course and passing the Georgia Nurse Aide Competency Exam. This step is often a prerequisite for advanced PCT coursework and is required by many employers in Georgia.

4. Gain Hands-On Clinical Experience

During your training program, you will participate in supervised clinical externships at local healthcare facilities. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing practical patient care skills and meeting graduation requirements.

5. Earn Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification

Many programs and employers require you to hold current BLS or CPR certification for healthcare providers. Training in BLS/CPR can often be completed as part of your PCT program or through external providers, and ensures you are prepared to respond to medical emergencies.

6. Apply for and Pass the National Certification Exam

After completing your training, you are eligible to sit for a national certification exam, such as the Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) exam offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or the Patient Care Technician (PCTC) exam from the American Medical Certification Association (AMCA). The exam covers topics like patient care, vital signs, infection control, phlebotomy, and EKG. Passing this exam demonstrates your competency and increases your employability.

7. Apply for Patient Care Technician Positions

With your certification in hand, you can apply for entry-level PCT positions in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities across Georgia. Employers may require a background check, proof of certification, and up-to-date immunization records as part of the hiring process.

8. Maintain Certification and Pursue Continuing Education

To remain certified, you may need to complete continuing education courses or renew your certification periodically, depending on the certifying organization's requirements. Staying current with best practices and new healthcare regulations will help advance your career and maintain your credentials.

Patient Care Technician Training in Georgia

Georgia offers a variety of accredited program options for those interested in becoming a patient care technician. These programs are designed to prepare you for certification and employment in entry-level healthcare roles, with a mix of classroom learning and real-world clinical experience.

• Georgia Allied Health Institute: The patient care technician program at Georgia Allied Health Institute is a 14-week course totaling 685 clock hours, which includes both classroom learning and externships. Graduates are eligible for multiple certifications, including patient care technician, phlebotomy technician, EKG technician, and clinical medical assisting.
• Chattahoochee Technical College: Chattahoochee Technical College offers a patient care technician program. It is a short-term, non-credit course designed to prepare students for immediate employment and national certification.
• Atlanta Career Institute: Atlanta Career Institute provides a patient care technician program that offers practical training and prepares students for immediate entry into the healthcare workforce.
• Valdosta State University (PACE): The patient care technician program at Valdosta State University's PACE division is structured to give students the necessary skills and clinical experience to succeed in patient care roles.
• Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology: Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology's Atlanta campus features a patient care technician program with a curriculum designed to prepare students for certification and to meet the needs of local employers.

Types of Patient Care Technicians

A patient care technician certification opens up several career paths in healthcare. With the right training and certification, you can work in a variety of settings and roles, each offering unique opportunities and responsibilities.

Nursing Assistant or Nursing Aide

Nursing assistants or aides, often found in long-term care facilities and hospitals, help patients with personal hygiene, mobility, and daily routines. They also observe and report changes in patient conditions and may assist with feeding and basic medical tasks.

Home Health Aide

Home health aides provide care for patients in their homes, supporting daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. They often work with elderly or disabled individuals, helping them maintain independence while monitoring their health and reporting to supervising nurses.

Phlebotomy Technician

Phlebotomy technicians specialize in drawing blood samples from patients for laboratory testing or donation. With PCT certification and additional training, they can work in hospitals, clinics, or diagnostic labs, ensuring proper sample collection and patient comfort during procedures.

Dialysis Technician

Dialysis technicians operate dialysis machines and monitor patients undergoing kidney dialysis treatments. They are responsible for preparing equipment, observing patients during procedures, and reporting any complications to nurses or physicians.

Medical Assistant

Medical assistants perform both administrative and clinical duties in healthcare settings. They may schedule appointments, manage patient records, take vital signs, assist with exams, and carry out basic laboratory tests, providing essential support to physicians and nurses.

Patient Care Associate

Patient care associates work alongside nurses in hospitals, helping with patient transport, hygiene, and mobility. They may also perform clerical tasks and assist with basic medical procedures, contributing to efficient patient care delivery.

Average Salary and Career Outlook

Understanding the salary and career outlook for patient care technicians and related roles in Georgia can help you plan your career path. The healthcare industry is growing, and there is a steady demand for trained professionals in hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers.

For example, patient care technician and nursing assistant roles are projected to grow by up to 4% in Georgia through 2034, while home health aides are experiencing rapid growth, with a projected 21% increase in job opportunities nationwide. Medical assistants are among the most sought-after healthcare professionals, especially in metropolitan areas like Atlanta, due to their versatility in both clinical and administrative tasks.

In terms of salary, average annual earnings in Georgia are as follows:

• Home health aides: $32,000
• Phlebotomists: $37,000
• Nursing assistants (orderlies): $28,000
• Medical assistants: $29,000

While these salaries are somewhat lower than national averages, the field offers stable employment, good benefits, and advancement opportunities.

What Skills Are Required To Become a Patient Care Technician?

To become a successful patient care technician, you need a diverse set of skills that combine technical knowledge with compassion and strong interpersonal abilities. These skills ensure you can provide high-quality care, communicate effectively with patients and medical staff, and handle the daily challenges of a healthcare environment.

• Communication: Patient care technicians must clearly and empathetically communicate with patients, families, and healthcare team members to ensure accurate information exchange and compassionate care.
• Attention to detail: Precision is essential when monitoring vital signs, recording patient data, and following medical instructions to prevent errors and ensure patient safety.
• Physical stamina: The role often requires standing for long periods, assisting with patient mobility, and performing physically demanding tasks throughout each shift.
• Technical skills: Proficiency in using medical equipment, performing EKGs, drawing blood, and assisting with basic clinical procedures is crucial for effective patient care.
• Compassion and patience: Providing care to individuals who may be in pain or distress requires a high level of empathy, patience, and a genuine desire to help others.

FAQs About How To Become a Patient Care Technician

If you're considering becoming a patient care technician in Georgia, you may have questions beyond basic requirements and job duties. The following FAQs address common concerns about training options, certification processes, and the practical aspects of entering this healthcare field in Georgia.

Can I Complete Patient Care Technician Training Online in Georgia?

Yes, several accredited programs in Georgia offer online patient care technician training, which provides flexibility for students with work or family commitments. However, even online programs typically require in-person clinical rotations or externships to ensure you gain the necessary hands-on skills before graduation and certification.

Do I Need To Be Certified in CPR or CNA Before Starting a PCT Program?

Some patient care technician programs in Georgia require students to have a current Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification and/or CPR certification before enrolling. This prerequisite varies by school, so it's important to check the specific requirements of each program before applying.

What Is the Certification Exam Like for Patient Care Technicians?

The certification exam for patient care technicians, such as the CPCT/A from the National Healthcareer Association, consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics like patient care, infection control, and medical procedures. The exam must be completed within two hours, and a passing score is typically 70% or higher.

Can Prior Work Experience Substitute for Formal Training?

In some cases, Georgia allows a minimum of two years of supervised work experience in the patient care technician field to substitute for formal training program completion. This pathway is especially helpful for individuals who have gained relevant experience on the job but have not attended a formal PCT course.

How Do I Find Accredited Patient Care Technician Programs in Georgia?

You can find accredited patient care technician programs in Georgia by researching community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare training centers. Look for programs approved by the Georgia Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission (GNPEC) or recognized healthcare education bodies, and ensure they prepare you for industry-standard certification exams.

Earn Your Degree Today

If you're ready to start your journey as a patient care technician, now is a great time to take the next step. Explore online degree and certificate programs from the schools featured on Learn.org and begin building a rewarding career in healthcare.