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Patient Care Associate Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

UMR

Associate Patient Care | , NM

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$16 - $29/hr

Job Title Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology, to help millions ... Electronic eligibility verification, updating patient demographics, ensure required referrals and ...

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All JobsPatient Care Associate JobsPatient Care Associate Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Patient Care Associate information

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$11

$22

$28

How much do patient care associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient care associate in Rio Rancho, NM is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $26.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Patient Care Associates?

Patient Care Associates (PCAs) are healthcare professionals who assist nurses and other medical staff in providing basic care to patients in hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities. Their responsibilities often include helping patients with daily activities like bathing, dressing, feeding, and mobility. PCAs also monitor vital signs, report changes in patient conditions, and ensure a safe and clean environment. They play a critical role in supporting both patients and the healthcare team, fostering comfort and well-being during a patient’s stay.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Patient Care Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Patient Care Associate, you need a solid understanding of basic patient care, vital sign monitoring, and infection control, often supported by a high school diploma and completion of a certified nursing assistant (CNA) program. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and basic medical equipment is typically required. Strong communication, compassion, and teamwork skills help Patient Care Associates effectively support patients and collaborate with healthcare professionals. These abilities are crucial for delivering safe, high-quality patient care and maintaining efficient healthcare operations.

Is PCA a stressful job?

Patient Care Associates often work in fast-paced healthcare environments, which can be physically and emotionally demanding. The job requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle patient needs and emergencies, which can contribute to stress levels. However, proper training and support can help manage job-related stress effectively.

Is a patient care associate the same as a CNA?

A patient care associate (PCA) is similar to a certified nursing assistant (CNA) but may have different training requirements depending on the state or facility. Both roles involve providing basic patient care, such as assisting with activities of daily living and monitoring patient conditions, often under the supervision of nurses. However, CNAs typically complete a state-approved training program and certification, while PCAs may have varying qualifications and responsibilities.

What are some of the common challenges Patient Care Associates face when balancing patient needs with administrative tasks?

Patient Care Associates often find themselves juggling direct patient care responsibilities—such as assisting with daily living activities and monitoring vital signs—with necessary administrative duties like updating patient records and coordinating with nursing staff. Time management and prioritization are key challenges, especially during busy shifts or in understaffed situations. Effective communication and teamwork help ensure that patient needs are met promptly without compromising documentation and procedural accuracy. Developing strong organizational skills can make it easier to manage these demands and provide high-quality patient care.

What are the responsibilities of a patient care associate?

A patient care associate (PCA) provides basic patient care under the supervision of nursing staff, including assisting with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and feeding. They monitor patient conditions, take vital signs, and help with mobility and comfort, often working in hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities. Strong communication skills and basic medical knowledge are essential for this role.

What Is a Patient Care Associate?

A patient care associate works to meet the basic needs of patients in a variety of healthcare facilities, especially hospitals and nursing homes. Some employers refer to people in this position as a "nursing assistant." In this career, your job duties include checking vital signs, feeding patients who are not able to feed themselves, changing and cleaning bedding, and moving or turning patients. This career requires basic medical training, but you do not need a specific degree. Some patient care associates may have additional duties depending on their level of certification.

Who gets paid more, PCT or CNA?

Patient Care Technicians (PCTs) generally earn higher wages than Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) due to additional responsibilities, skills, and sometimes required certifications. PCTs often perform more complex tasks and may work in specialized settings, which can lead to higher pay. However, salaries vary by location, employer, and experience.

What is the difference between Patient Care Associate vs Certified Nursing Assistant?

AspectPatient Care AssociateCertified Nursing Assistant
CertificationsTypically requires a Patient Care Technician or similar certificationRequires CNA certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, long-term care facilitiesHospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities
Job DutiesAssisting with patient care, vital signs, basic proceduresBasic patient care, hygiene, vital signs, mobility assistance

Both roles involve direct patient care in healthcare settings and may require similar certifications. However, Patient Care Associates often have a broader scope of duties and may work in more diverse environments, while CNAs focus primarily on basic patient assistance and hygiene tasks.

More about Patient Care Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Patient Care jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Patient Care jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Patient Care Associate jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Patient Care Associate job openings:
Patient Care Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patient Care Associate job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,809 per year, or $22 per hour.
Associate Patient Care | , NM

Associate Patient Care | , NM

Reliant Medical Group

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$16 - $29/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Reliant Medical Group rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Title

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology, to help millions of people live healthier lives. The work you do with our team will directly improve health outcomes by connecting people with the care, pharmacy benefits, data and resources they need to feel their best. Here, you will find a culture guided by inclusion, talented peers, comprehensive benefits and career development opportunities. Come make an impact on the communities we serve as you help us advance health optimization on a global scale. Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together.

Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00AM - 5:00PM

Location: 2901 TRANSPORT ST. Albuquerque NM

Primary Responsibilities
  • Provides direct customer service and front desk assistance for assigned department to include but not limited to registering, scheduling and verifying insurance and arriving patients. Electronic eligibility verification, updating patient demographics, ensure required referrals and prior authorization are in place for patient visit. Manage No-show list. Schedules wait list, follow-up, x-ray, referral appointments.
  • Handles customer account transactions, provides customer assistance, and performs and/or oversees cashiering operations. Responsible for obtaining 'expert' level knowledge of the inter-workings of various insurance plans and staying abreast of insurance plans in the process of being added, deleted or changed. Collection of co-pays, co-insurance, self-pay, fee-for-service, and payment on account.
  • May be required to analyze medical records and charge entry information for financial reimbursement within the guidelines and procedures. Work TES charge entry edits.
  • Adheres to policies, procedures and regulations to ensure patient safety and regulations. May attend departmental meetings and provide constructive recommendations for areas improvement.
  • Other duties as assigned
Reasons To Consider Working For UnitedHealth Group

Put it all together - competitive base pay, a full and comprehensive benefit program, performance rewards, and a management team who demonstrates their commitment to your success. Some of our offerings include:

  • Paid Time Off which you start to accrue with your first pay period plus 8 Paid Holidays
  • Medical Plan options along with participation in a Health Spending Account or a Health Saving account
  • Dental, Vision, Life& AD&D Insurance along with Short-term disability and Long-Term Disability coverage
  • 401(k) Savings Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Education Reimbursement
  • Employee Discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program
  • Voluntary Benefits (pet insurance, legal insurance, LTC Insurance, etc.)

You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear directions on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.

Required Qualifications
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • 1+ year of customer service
  • 6+ months of experience with medical terminology
  • Basic level of experience with MS Office
Preferred Qualifications
  • 1+ years of experience with electronic health records
  • 1+ years of related healthcare experience, including scheduling experience
  • 1+ years of experience handling and triaging of telephone calls and a multi-system phone line
  • Knowledge of medical terminology
  • Bilingual (English /Spanish)
Soft Skills
  • Ability to work independently and as a team, and maintain good judgment and accountability
  • Ability to multi-task and prioritize tasks to meet all deadlines
  • Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment
  • Demonstrated ability to work well with health care providers
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to speak clearly and concisely, conveying information in a manner that others can understand, as well as ability to understand and interpret information from others

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The hourly pay for this role will range from $16 to $29 per hour based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.

At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes - an enterprise priority reflected in our mission.

UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.

UnitedHealth Group is a drug-free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.

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