arwll77

I did want to mention that many facilites in PA offer on-site training. Some of them do their own, and others offer it through programs like HACC's. The facility where my HACC classes were held is in Myerstown. Two of the girls in my class had been hired by that facility, and they were actually getting PAID while they took the class. So there they were, collecting a paycheck for the same thing that I shelled out $585 for PLUS they were guaranteed jobs at that facility afterwards!! (I imagine HACC works out some kind of deal with the locations where they conduct their programs - they train employees in return for use of the place or whatever.) Anyway, the really sweet part about that kind of deal is you get paid to train, plus you have a job once you're finished, oh yeah, and they'll pay for you to take the test - basically you're sponsored for everything. They will also allow you to work prior to taking your state exam. In my case, I paid my for my own class, and once it was finished I started applying for jobs, but basically no one will hire you until you pass the test...but in a situation like what I've been describing, you're permitted to work during the time between the end of your class and taking the test...I think you have like 100 days. So my suggestion is to research your local long term care facilities to see which ones offer on-site training and go that route. You really can't beat it! Good luck!

i know which program you're talking about...hacc, right? i just finished my cna course with them in april! first - no matter where you gain employment afterwards, as long as it is a long term care facility, they are required by PA state law to reimburse your tuition!! you have to work 130 hours to be reimbursed the first half, and another 130 hours to be reimbursed the second. now, if you end up getting a job in a hospital, (which is my situation) you will not be reimbursed the tuition, but that's something i personally am willing to sacrifice because i prefer to work in a hospital verus a nursing home. although from what you mentioned earlier, it sounds like you have that part already taken care of, correct? your concern now is with the "extras" that you need to purchase out of pocket... hacc's uniform policy is that you'll need to wear all white - white scrub top, white scrub pants, white socks, white shoes, white, white, white!! i purchased 3 sets and actually ended up not liking the way one of them fit so really, ultimately i alternated between the other two. i just did laundry every other day. where do you live? because i was recently told that there's a place in ephrata that sells super cheap t-shirts, etc. and that they have cheap scrubs as well...i haven't been there yet myself, but i can let you know where it is if you're in that area. i would also suggest checking craigslist or ebay. in fact - what size would you be looking for? because if the size matches i may even be willing to donate a pair to you, you won't see me wearing all white anyway now that i'm allowed to wear any color i want! i found a $10 watch at burlington coat factory. all you need is something that has a second hand - doesn't have to be fancy. make sure you keep receipts for EVERYTHING you buy! you can use them at tax time for deductions. no need to buy a blood pressure cuff/scope - they provide them in class and you're not expected to purchase your own. while the upfront expenses may seem hefty, it more than pays for itself in the long run. just a few weeks of your time, and the successful passing of the red cross exam and you're able to find a job earning $11+ per hour! oh - one more thing, just a head's up so hopefully you can prepare ahead of time...the cost to take the state exam is $102.00. you'll want to register to take your test as soon as the class is finished because it takes a few weeks for them to schedule you, at least you will if you want to start working asap...so just be aware that after the class is all said and done you're going to be hit with the $102 right away. well, i hope some of this helps...let me know if you have any questions. i really enjoyed the program through hacc, i was very well prepared for the state exam.

Hi there! I'm seeking some advice... I'm currently a CNA and have intentions of pursuing my LPN education. My hopes are that once I'm finished with school I'll be able to gain employment with either a Pediatrician or Family Physician. Anyway, I've narrowed my program search down to two part-time programs offered in my area. (Part-time is a MUST) One is through a satellite campus of Penn State, the other is through a local Career and Technology center (Vo-Tech). There is a substantial price difference for the Vo-Tech program - $3,000 less than PSU. And the hours are less as well; T,W,Th from 2pm to 9pm versus Penn State's schedule of T,W,Th 4pm-9:30pm and every other weekend Sat. & Sun. 6am-6pm. Both are 18 month programs. While the Vo-Tech program is cheaper and would leave my weekends available for family and work, I'm wondering if I'll be sacrificing the better education. And once it comes time to seek employment, will the venue where I received my education bear any significance, or do employers basically just want you to be licensed?? Let's say a woman and I are applying for the same position, we're both recently licensed, we have the same experience, yet she received her education from a highly recognized school such as Penn State, and I from a local community career tech school. Am I jeopardizing my future opportunities by opting for the less expensive school with less time commitment? Any advice or experience you can share is greatly appreciated!