Benefits of Formal Credentials

PATIENT CARE TECHNICIAN

What is a Patient Care Technician?• An unlicensed allied health provider

• May work in general or specialty department

• Performs routine tasks

• Not qualified to exercise professional judgment

• Level of education depends on employer expectations

• May have a variety of job titles

• Medical assistant

• Nurse aide

• Dialysis technician

• EKG technician

• Radiologic technician

• Etc…

Education Requirements• Very low for entry-level generalist

• High school diploma or GED

• Specialty department may require Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree

• Usually depends on services being provided

• High risk patients and service typically require more education

• Employers may offer in-house programs

• Directors may provide incentives for taking classes

• Inquire with local organizations

Training and Certification• Heavily dependent on the department and employer

• Trend is towards short periods of training and national certification

• Dialysis technicians must be certified within 18 months

• More stringent regulatory requirements meant to cut costs

• May be completed in-house or through independent establishments

• Check with employers about their unique requirements

• Make sure program is approved before enrolling

• Pursue certification that is relevant to the department

• May need to complete additional training and certification when making the transition from a general area of practice to a specialty department

Voluntary Pursuit of Credentials• Some employers do not require training or certification

• Voluntary pursuit of credentials may…

• Establish the legitimacy of the profession

• Demonstrate competency

• Result in more job opportunities

• Lead to higher earnings

• Allow for administrative promotions

• Ease the transition from general to specialty departments

• Strengthen the resume

• Result in higher levels of personal and professional satisfaction

• Improve knowledge and skills

• Be received better by patients who want qualified personnel

Common Credentials• College education

• Vocational Certificate

• Associate’s Degree

• Bachelor’s Degree

• Career training

• In-house through the employer

• Local independent colleges and universities

• Vocational schools

• Online programs

• Certification

• Specific to general or specialty practice

• May require previous training and experience to become eligible

Steps to Success• Decide on appropriate career path

• Consider entry-level positions if lacking in credentials

• Acquire basic knowledge and skills before advancing

• Inquire about education, training, and certification requirements

• Take advantage of support programs offered by employer

• Become active in local, state, and national organizations

• Network with experienced and influential individuals

• Learn as much as possible

• Stay up-to-date with government regulations

• Follow healthcare news and events

• Enjoy the process

Resources• Patient Care Technician Certification

• www.patientcaretechniciansalary.net