CNA Classes in Columbia Falls, Montana

Columbia Falls CNA Training - Montana

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 Columbia Falls, Montana

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Columbia Falls, Montana? This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process of becoming a CNA, nurse aide, or nursing assistant in this beautiful town. We’ll cover local CNA training programs, employment opportunities, and state-specific certification requirements.

About Columbia Falls

Columbia Falls, located in the scenic Flathead County, Montana, is known for its close proximity to Glacier National Park and the Flathead River. This charming town offers a blend of natural beauty and a welcoming community. For more information about Columbia Falls, visit the official city website.

CNA Training Programs in Columbia Falls, Montana

If you are looking to enroll in a CNA program in Columbia Falls, Montana, here are some local options:

Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC)
- Location: Kalispell, MT (about 20 minutes from Columbia Falls)
- Program: FVCC offers a comprehensive Nursing Assistant program that prepares students for the Montana CNA certification exam. The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and clinical practice.
- Website: FVCC Nursing Assistant Program
Kalispell Regional Healthcare
- Location: Kalispell, MT (about 20 minutes from Columbia Falls)
- Program: This healthcare facility offers a CNA training program that includes hands-on clinical experience in a hospital setting. The program aims to provide students with the skills needed for immediate employment.
- Website: Kalispell Regional Healthcare CNA Program
Montana State University (MSU)
- Location: Bozeman, MT (approximately 4 hours from Columbia Falls)
- Program: MSU offers a Nursing Assistant program that combines online coursework with in-person clinical training. This program is ideal for students who prefer a flexible learning schedule.
- Website: MSU Nursing Assistant Program

CNA Employment Opportunities in Columbia Falls

Once you have completed your CNA training, there are several healthcare facilities and nursing homes in Columbia Falls where you can seek employment:

North Valley Hospital
- Location: Whitefish, MT (about 15 minutes from Columbia Falls)
- Description: North Valley Hospital is a critical access hospital that offers a range of medical services. They often have openings for CNAs in various departments.
- Website: North Valley Hospital Careers
Immanuel Lutheran Communities
- Location: Kalispell, MT (about 20 minutes from Columbia Falls)
- Description: This senior living community provides skilled nursing care, assisted living, and rehabilitation services. They frequently hire CNAs to support their residents.
- Website: Immanuel Lutheran Communities Careers
The Springs at Whitefish
- Location: Whitefish, MT (about 15 minutes from Columbia Falls)
- Description: This assisted living and memory care facility offers a supportive environment for both residents and staff. CNAs play a crucial role in the daily care of residents.
- Website: The Springs at Whitefish Careers

CNA Certification Requirements in Montana

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

Complete a State-Approved CNA Training Program: You must complete a state-approved nursing assistant program that includes both classroom and clinical training.
Pass the CNA Certification Exam: After completing the training program, you must pass the Montana CNA certification exam, which consists of a written test and a skills evaluation.
Background Check: You must undergo a criminal background check as part of the certification process.
State Registration: Once you pass the exam, you will be registered with the Montana Nurse Aide Registry.

For more information, visit the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services and the Montana Nurse Aide Registry.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Columbia Falls, Montana, is a fulfilling and impactful choice. With the right training and dedication, you can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need. Contact a local CNA program today to begin your journey toward becoming a certified nursing assistant.

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 Montana 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 Columbia Falls?

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 Columbia Falls 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 Columbia Falls 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 Columbia Falls?

Many schools that offer CNA training have new sessions beginning every 6 to 8 weeks. In many areas in Montana, you can find CNA training starting in November 2024, December 2024, January 2025, or February 2025 available for registration now. Unlike nursing programs in Montana, 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 Columbia Falls is a great way to quickly gain experience in the medical field. Also check out Montana CNA Salary info.