How to Become a Certified PCT in Texas
Becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a great way to start a fulfilling career in healthcare. This guide covers what a PCT does, how to get certified in Texas, how much you can earn, and where you can work.
Key Points
- Patient Care Technicians (also called PCT, Patient Care Assistants, or Clinical Care Technicians) are multi-skilled healthcare professionals who provide direct patient care, perform basic medical procedures, and assist nursing staff.
- PCT requirements in Texas include completing an accredited PCT training (4-12 weeks), obtaining CNA certification, passing the CPCT/A exam, and completing a background check.
- PCT Training programs cost $1,200-$3,500, with many facilities offering tuition reimbursement and payment plans.
- The average PCT salary in Texas is $32,970/year ($15.85/hour), with top earners exceeding $42,000.
- PCT job growth is projected to increase by 4% through 2033, especially in major medical centers in Houston, Dallas, and Austin.
Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Patient Care Technician
Once certified, you can advance your career in several directions:
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): With further education and licensing, you can transition to an LPN role, where you will have more responsibilities and a broader scope of practice.
- Registered Nurse (RN): Pursuing an RN designation opens doors to a more advanced career with greater responsibilities, including patient care management and medical decision-making.
- Specialized Technician Roles: You can specialize in areas such as dialysis, phlebotomy, or electrocardiography, focusing on specific aspects of patient care and treatment.
- Healthcare Administration: With additional training, you might move into administrative roles, managing healthcare facilities or departments.
- Patient Care Coordinator: This role involves managing patient care plans and coordinating between patients and healthcare providers for effective treatment outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a patient care technician do?
A Patient Care Technician (PCT) assists with essential patient care tasks in various healthcare settings. They monitor vital signs, help with personal hygiene, collect specimens for tests, and provide support to nurses and other healthcare professionals. PCTs play a crucial role in ensuring patients receive compassionate and efficient care.
How long does it take to become a PCT in Texas?
Most training programs last 4–12 weeks depending on full-time vs. part-time schedules.
Do you need a certification to be a PCT in Texas?
Yes. Most Texas employers require both CNA certification and CPCT/A certification from the NHA.
What certification should I get for PCT?
The recommended certification is the CPCT/A (Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant) offered by the National Healthcareer Association.
How much do PCTs make in Texas?
According to BLS, Patient Care Technicians earn an average of $32,970/year in Texas, with experienced professionals earning over $42,000.
Is a PCT more than a CNA?
While both Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and Patient Care Technicians (PCTs) provide patient care, they have different scopes of practice. A CNA focuses more on assisting with basic daily living activities and providing direct patient support, while a patient care technician often has additional training that allows them to perform more complex tasks, such as drawing blood or operating medical equipment.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a Certified Patient Care Technician in Texas offers a fast, affordable, and rewarding pathway into healthcare. With training programs that can be completed in under 3 months and strong demand in every corner of the state, now is the perfect time to get started.
Are you thinking about a job change or wanting to learn more about different career paths? Feel free to check out these additional articles:
Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.
