CNA Classes in Lake City, Florida

Lake City CNA Training - Florida

You can receive your CNA certification in as little as 3 to 8 weeks.

Admissions Advisor Tip: Don't limit your options. Contact multiple schools to to compare their different offers, like financial aid packages.

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Lake City, Florida

About Lake City

Lake City, Florida, known as the “Gateway to Florida,” is a charming city nestled in Columbia County. With its rich history, beautiful natural surroundings, and a welcoming community, it’s an ideal place to start your career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). The city is home to several parks, lakes, and historic sites, making it a vibrant place to live and work. For more information about Lake City, visit the official Lake City website.

CNA Training Programs in Lake City, Florida

If you’re looking to become a CNA in Lake City, there are several local options for CNA training programs and courses. Here are three notable programs:

1. Florida Gateway College
   • Description: Florida Gateway College offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant program designed to prepare students for the Florida CNA exam. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
   • Location: Lake City, FL
   • Program Link: Florida Gateway College CNA Program
2. Suwannee-Hamilton Technical Center
   • Description: Located a short drive from Lake City, this technical center provides a Nursing Assistant program that covers essential skills and knowledge needed for a successful career as a CNA.
   • Location: Live Oak, FL (approximately 25 miles from Lake City)
   • Program Link: Suwannee-Hamilton Technical Center CNA Program
3. North Florida Technical College
   • Description: North Florida Technical College offers a state-approved CNA program that includes both theoretical and practical training to ensure students are well-prepared for the CNA certification exam.
   • Location: Starke, FL (approximately 40 miles from Lake City)
   • Program Link: North Florida Technical College CNA Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Lake City

Lake City boasts several healthcare facilities and nursing homes where CNAs can find employment opportunities. Here are some key employers in the area:

1. Lake City Medical Center
   • Description: A part of HCA Healthcare, Lake City Medical Center is a full-service hospital offering a range of medical services. They frequently have openings for CNAs in various departments.
   • Location: Lake City, FL
   • Employment Opportunities: Lake City Medical Center Careers
2. Avalon Healthcare Center
   • Description: Avalon Healthcare Center is a skilled nursing facility providing long-term care and rehabilitation services. They offer numerous opportunities for CNAs to work in a supportive environment.
   • Location: Lake City, FL
   • Employment Opportunities: Avalon Healthcare Center Careers
3. Baya Pointe Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
   • Description: This facility provides comprehensive nursing and rehabilitation services, making it a great place for CNAs to gain experience and grow in their careers.
   • Location: Lake City, FL
   • Employment Opportunities: Baya Pointe Nursing and Rehabilitation Center Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in Florida

To become a certified nursing assistant in Florida, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: You must graduate from a program approved by the Florida Board of Nursing.
2. Pass the CNA Exam: The exam consists of a written (or oral) test and a skills test.
3. Background Check: You must pass a Level II background screening.
4. Certification Application: Submit an application to the Florida Board of Nursing.

For more detailed information, visit the Florida Board of Nursing and the Florida Department of Health.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Lake City, Florida, is a rewarding and fulfilling choice. With numerous local training programs and employment opportunities, you are well on your way to making a positive impact in the healthcare field. Contact a school today and take the first step towards your new career!

PCT · CNA · CMA – What’s the Difference?

This depends on where you live. Some PCT courses include EKG and phlebotomy training. Some Patient Care Technician programs also include HHA (Home Health Aid) certification. However, in some work environments the titles CNA and PCT are used interchangably. Some hospitals in Florida may be hiring Nurse Care Techs (NCT), a position which you can apply for with your CNA license.

CMA can stand for Certified Medication Aide or Certified Medical Assistant, both which perform separate but overlapping duties in the workplace.

How Much Does CNA Training Cost in Lake City?

Nursing assistant courses at vocational colleges and allied health schools usually range between $400 and $1200. When choosing a CNA school, learn about all the associated costs required at each institution. Some schools list their program cost as all expenses included. However other schools may also require you to purchase additional materials (such as books, scrubs and materials for your clinicals) which have separate fees from the tuition costs.

CNA Refresher Courses around Lake City usually cost around $100-$200.

Need Tuition Assistance?

While not all schools offer financial aid for students enrolled in their CNA course, some training programs may offer assistance to help with the cost of the course or certification. Also, some CNA employers will even pay for your Nurse Assistant training or reimburse you after you successfully complete your CNA training.

Some employers in Lake City will cover a percentage of your CNA tuition; others will pay tuition costs up to a specific dollar amount. Often, new CNAs are required to work a particular number of months at the employer that covered their school bills. Or you may just need to reimburse them for any of the tuition costs they paid on your behalf.

When Can I Start CNA Training in Lake City?

Many schools that offer CNA training have new sessions beginning every 6 to 8 weeks. In many areas in Florida, you can find CNA training starting in December 2024, January 2025, February 2025, or March 2025 available for registration now. Unlike nursing programs in Florida, you can usually find a school starting a new session of their CNA course fairly quickly. However, some schools offer CNA classes in semester format. At these schools, you may need to wait up 3 or 4 months to start your course.

Becoming a Nurse Aide in Lake City is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out Florida CNA Salary info.