American Medical Certification Association (AMCA) Certification

Certifications Offered

The AMCA certification for Patient Care Technicians is called the Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A).

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the AMCA CPCT/A certification, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete an approved PCT training program. Alternatively, you may qualify for certification if you have completed a minimum of 480 hours of supervised PCT work experience.

Exam Content

Basic Patient Care: This section covers patient care procedures such as bathing, grooming, dressing, feeding, transferring, and ambulation, as well as providing comfort measures, positioning patients, and maintaining patient safety.

Patient Assessment and Vital Signs: Candidates are tested on their ability to perform patient assessments, measure vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure, and pain), and recognize and report abnormal findings.

Phlebotomy and Specimen Collection: This area focuses on blood collection techniques, specimen handling, and related safety and infection control procedures.

Electrocardiography (EKG): Candidates are tested on their understanding of EKG procedures, including electrode placement, recording EKG tracings, and recognizing basic arrhythmias.

Infection Control and Safety Procedures: This section evaluates the candidate’s knowledge of best practices for preventing the spread of infections, adhering to safety guidelines, and handling hazardous materials.

Medical Terminology and Abbreviations: Candidates should be familiar with common medical terms, abbreviations, and their meanings, as well as the proper usage of medical terminology in a healthcare setting.

Communication and Interpersonal Skills: This section assesses the candidate’s ability to communicate effectively with patients, family members, and healthcare team members, as well as the importance of maintaining patient confidentiality.

Medical Law and Ethics: Candidates are tested on their understanding of legal and ethical principles related to patient care, such as informed consent, advanced directives, patients’ rights, and professional boundaries.

Exam Format

The AMCA CPCT/A certification exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, and you will have 2 hours to complete the test. The exam is administered in a computer-based format at an approved testing center.

Exam Preparation

The AMCA provides study materials to help you prepare for the CPCT/A exam, including an online study guide, practice assessments, and an interactive review course. You can also use additional resources such as textbooks, online tutorials, and practice exams from other sources to supplement your preparation.

Exam Fees

The AMCA CPCT/A certification exam fee is $109, which includes the cost of the exam and access to the AMCA’s online study materials.

Exam Results

You will receive your exam results immediately upon completing the computer-based test. If you pass the exam, you will be awarded the CPCT/A certification, which demonstrates your competence and skill in patient care.

What are the benefits of the CPCT/A certification?

The Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) certification, offered by the AMCA , provides several benefits for healthcare professionals, including:

Professional Recognition: Obtaining the CPCT/A certification demonstrates that you have met the national standards for knowledge and skills in patient care. This recognition can help you stand out among other job candidates and showcase your commitment to providing quality patient care.

Increased Job Opportunities: Many healthcare employers prefer or require certification for patient care technician positions. Holding a CPCT/A certification can increase your chances of being hired and open up more job opportunities in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and home healthcare agencies.

Higher Earning Potential: Certified professionals often have a higher earning potential compared to their non-certified counterparts. Employers may be willing to pay more for certified patient care technicians who have demonstrated their expertise and competence in the field.

Improved Patient Care: The CPCT/A certification ensures that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide safe and effective patient care. This can lead to improved patient outcomes, increased patient satisfaction, and a better overall healthcare experience.

Professional Development: Preparing for and obtaining the CPCT/A certification can enhance your knowledge and skills in patient care, making you a more competent and confident healthcare professional. Additionally, maintaining your certification through continuing education helps you stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

Networking Opportunities: Being certified by the NHA connects you with a network of other certified healthcare professionals, allowing you to share experiences, learn from others, and expand your professional network.

Increased Confidence: Achieving the CPCT/A certification can boost your confidence in your abilities as a patient care technician or assistant, helping you perform your job more effectively and providing better care to your patients.

CPCT/A Certification Renewal

To maintain your AMCA CPCT/A certification, you must complete at least 10 Continuing Education (CE) credits every two years and pay a recertification fee. The AMCA provides access to CE resources and allows you to track your CE credits online.