Launch your healthcare career with free online PCT training. Illinois PCTs earn $38,000+ annually across 189 hospitals. Train at your own pace and pay only when you're ready to certify.
Ideal for candidates with prior patient care experience who need certification to validate their skills for Illinois employers.
New to the field? If you have no prior experience, you must complete a Self-Managed 100-Hour Externship to build hands-on confidence needed to complete the program and prepare to challenge the AMCA PCTC.
EHired does NOT place, arrange, or supervise externships. All externships are self-managed. You are responsible for identifying and securing your own externship site at a hospital or healthcare facility. EHired provides state-specific resources and guidance, but placement is not guaranteed.
$40K - $46K
Major hospitals
$38K - $44K
Regional systems
$37K - $43K
Community hospitals
$36K - $42K
Critical access
$38K - $44K
Academic centers
$44K - $50K
Specialized skills premium
Illinois acute care hospitals may hire PCTs with national AMCA PCTC certification. CNA certification is typically NOT required for hospital PCT positions.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification IS required for nursing homes and long-term care facilities per Illinois Board of Nursing regulations.
Patient Care Technicians in Illinois earn $38,000+ annually. Metro areas typically pay $40K - $46K. Dialysis Centers offer $44K - $50K with specialized skills premium. Source: BLS OEWS May 2024.
It depends on the setting. Illinois acute care hospitals typically do NOT require CNA certification—you can work as a PCT with AMCA PCTC certification. However, long-term care facilities (nursing homes) DO require CNA certification per IL Board of Nursing regulations. Always verify with your prospective employer.
With EHired's free online program, most students complete in 4-8 weeks at their own pace. When ready, schedule your AMCA PCTC certification exam. If you're new to healthcare, you'll also complete a self-managed 100-hour externship to build hands-on skills.
Excellent! 6% projected growth through 2034. Illinois's 189 hospitals and aging population (16.1% over 65) create consistent demand for PCTs. Major health systems across the state are continuously hiring.
Yes! Training and participation in the program is completely free. When you feel prepared for employment and credentialing, you pay a low one-time fee to complete the program and earn your certification.
Yes! AMCA PCTC certification is nationally recognized across all 50 states. Verify state-specific requirements before applying out-of-state.
Join thousands of Illinois residents who launched their healthcare careers with free PCT training.
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