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Resources > Clinical Experience  >  Patient Care Experience

Patient Care Experience

What is Patient Care Experience?

Patient Care Experience (PCE) involves hands-on roles where you directly support patients, such as taking vital signs, administering treatments, or assisting with daily activities. Most PA programs require or strongly prefer applicants to have substantial PCE hours, making it a critical part of your application.

Why PCE Matters

  • Demonstrates your ability to handle real patient care responsibilities

  • Prepares you for the clinical demands of PA school

  • Shows your commitment to healthcare

  • Helps develop confidence, communication, and teamwork skills in clinical settings

Common PCE Roles

  • Patient Care Technician (PCT)

  • Medical Assistant (MA)

  • Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

  • Dialysis Technician

  • Physical Therapy Assistant

  • Phlebotomist

Finding PCE Roles

Online Job Boards

  • Start by checking job search platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and ZipRecruiter. 

  • Search PCE role titles or use terms like "medical," "assistant" or "technician."

Local Hospitals/Clinics

  • Visit the websites of local hospitals, clinics, urgent care centers, and specialty offices. Check their Careers, Employment, or Work With Us pages regularly.

  • If there are no openings listed, look for a general contact email and send a resume and short message expressing interest.

Getting a Job Without a Certification

Certifications aren't always necessary to get a PCE job, especially for entry-level roles that offer on-the-job training. Many clinics, hospitals, and private practices are open to hiring pre-PA applicants who are eager to learn and dependable. With persistence and a smart application strategy, you gain valuable patient care experience without credentials.

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Tips for getting hired without certifications:

  • Look for listings that say "entry-level," "training provided," "on-the-job training," and "no experience necessary."

  • Don't be discouraged by listings that say "1 year experience preferred" - many are flexible.

  • Write a strong resume that highlights transferable skills, dependability, and willingness to learn.

  • Follow up after applying to express interest and enthusiasm.

FINDING A ROLE

Getting a PCE Job with a Certification

Earning a certification can expand your options, help you qualify for more competitive roles, and sometimes increase your pay. Roles like Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Medical Assistant (MA), and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) often require formal training, but programs are widely available and vary in length and cost. If you're open to investing in a credential, it can strengthen your experience before PA school.

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Tips for getting certified and using your certifications:

  • Explore local community colleges or vocational schools for certification programs (like CNA, MA, or EMT).

  • Check online options like Coursera or AHA for CPR and BLS certifications.

  • ​Highlight your certification in your resume headline and descriptions.

  • Consider gaining hours through part-time or PRN (as needed) roles if you're balancing other personal commitments. 

CERTIFICATIONS

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