How to Become a Phlebotomist?
Becoming a certified phlebotomist could be the right route for you! Phlebotomy is an important and fulfilling skill that can open many doors in healthcare. In this post, we will detail how to become a phlebotomist. If you're interested in working with blood, becoming a phlebotomist could be your ticket into the medical field.
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Anderson University in Indiana offers a comprehensive Phlebotomy certification program that prepares individuals for a rewarding career in healthcare. The program focuses on practical skills and theoretical knowledge, equipping students with the tools they need to excel in the field. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training, students gain a deep understanding of phlebotomy techniques, medical terminology, infection control procedures, and patient communication skills. The program adheres to industry standards and provides ample opportunities for practical application through clinical rotations. With experienced faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive learning environment, graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce as skilled and confident phlebotomists. This certification can also serve as a stepping stone for further career advancement in healthcare. Anderson University is committed to empowering individuals to make a positive impact in the healthcare industry.
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Collin College - Online
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Collin College's Health Professions curriculum provides you with the training and knowledge you need for a rewarding career as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA), Electrocardiography (EKG) Technician, Patient Care Technician (PCT), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Phlebotomy Technician (PHLEB). The five career tracks allow you to choose the specialization that best fits your career goals. Each track offers in-depth education with hands-on experience, thanks to experienced faculty that have worked in the healthcare field and valuable clinical partnerships with local hospitals, facilities, and clinics.
The variety of options in Health Professions also allows you to build your knowledge and skills as you progress through the different levels of educational awards. You can earn an Occupational Skills Award (OSA) and a Level 1 Certificates on your way to an Associate of Applied Science in Health Professions, providing you with the chance to work in your field of interest as you continue your education.
If your program requires a criminal background check, your placement in a required clinical site, cooperative, practicum, internship, and/or licensure/certification opportunity may be impacted. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your Program Director and check with your licensing/certifying entity, if any, to determine your status.
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Requirements to be a Phlebotomist
The eligibility requirements for a phlebotomy program vary depending on the training provider and typically include the following:
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Social Security Card
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Updated immunization records
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Driver's License / State ID
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HS diploma or GED (Not all schools require this)
Three steps to becoming a Phlebotomist
- Apply to an Accredited Phlebotomy Program
There are two main places to apply for a phlebotomy program: trade schools and community colleges. These programs provide excellent instruction and ensure students receive the proper training to enter the field. The quality of education in these two institutions is comparable, but each has unique advantages.
If you want to get certified quickly, applying to a trade school is an excellent option because they offer a fast-paced class. Some trade schools offer hybrid programs where you can take your classes online for the first half of the training and attend the lab clinicals in person, giving you a more flexible schedule. However, if you are looking for a more in-depth class, some schools may have the option to transfer class credits just in case you choose a different course or college.
After deciding which school you want to attend for your phlebotomy training, the next step is to review their requirements and ensure that you meet them before applying for the class.
- Complete a Phlebotomy Program
The length of each program can vary from 2 weeks to 6 months, and the costs of tuition fees can range from $600-$2300. The class has two sections: one for lectures and the other for lab clinical or hands-on training to familiarize you with the concepts covered in courses.
You may complete your training through a hybrid class where you can train online and in person. You can also train completely through in-person courses if you are a physical learner. Trade schools offer shorter programs than community colleges. So choose the one that works best for you.
- Earn a Certificate
After completing the phlebotomy program either in a community college or in a trade school, the next step you should take is to get certified.
Nationally, phlebotomist certification is not required. Only four states require phlebotomists to be licensed before they can work: California, Nevada, Washington, and Louisiana. However, you should still obtain certification because employers look for it, which is critical for your career advancement.
In the industry, there are three recognized certifications. This certification increases your chances of getting hired and makes you more marketable than other applicants.
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Phlebotomy Technician (PBT) - The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) offers the PBT certification, which is the most sought-after among employers and recognized by thousands of medical professionals across the country.
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Certified Phlebotomy Technician - The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) is the largest allied health certification agency in the United States, having awarded over 1 million certifications since 1989.
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Registered Phlebotomy Technician - The American Medical Technologists (AMT) have been certifying healthcare professionals since 1939.
These three certifications will allow you to practice phlebotomy at the same level and workplace. The only distinction is the cost of the exam, eligibility requirements, and continuing education requirements for renewal.
After completing the training and certification, you may wonder who you can work for. We have a list of potential employers to whom you can apply. Another way to gain experience is to volunteer at a blood drive, which will give you hands-on experience drawing blood from patients.
Are you excited to pursue a career as a phlebotomist? If yes, look into phlebotomy classes near you to get started on your certification.
Dreambound's extensive guides dig into the specific requirements and challenges that are different for each city in the US. Check out some of our other guides below:
Stephanie Dayak is the go-to person for everything related to automation and integrations at Dreambound. As a Certified Tax Technician turned tech whiz, her sharp eye for detail and passion for efficiency become evident in every project she undertakes. When not solving tech puzzles, she's out exploring the local food scene, cozying up with her dogs, or plugged into a thought-provoking podcast. She's an ardent believer in mixing fun with functionality!