One of the in-demand healthcare careers these days is that of a phlebotomy technician. Phlebotomists are indispensable members of the medical laboratory team and they are tasked primarily with the collection of blood samples for workup. For the most part, they are assigned in drawing out blood specimens for diagnostic purposes. Qualification requirements to enter a phlebotomy certification program are very achievable, typically just a high school diploma or an equivalent GED certificate, making it a highly sought after postsecondary course.
In the past, it was possible to gain entry into the occupation solely with on the phlebotomy training. These days however, in light of patient advocacy and safety, employers prefer to hire applicants who have completed a recognized program and passed a phlebotomy certification exam. Coursework often includes classroom discussions about the circulatory system or the human anatomy as a whole, therapeutic communication, standard precautions, blood collection techniques, as well as the legal aspects inherent to such practice. These theories are combined with related learning experience or skills lab to enhance an individual’s adeptness in blood draws. Certificates and licenses are mandatory to practice phlebotomy in California. Even though state licensing or phlebotomy certification exams are typically not compulsory in a number of jurisdictions, it’s probable that these particular legal requirements are going to be enforced soon.
It is recommended to attend a school which is recognized by a Department of Education-accredited professional body. In the United States, there are at least three accrediting bodies that approve phlebotomy certification programs. In the US, the NAACLS is by far the largest and most well-known. Accredited colleges and career centers offer programs of varying lengths. A number of them provide six-day courses while diploma programs can be finished in a year or less. Still it is good to examine cost of attendance and student, adequacy of training facilities, and student to instructor ratio when considering several programs. The Internet is a good resource to find opinions from alumni and from the public as well.
Phlebotomy can be a rewarding and stable career. Most of the skills required on the job can be learned by rote. Phlebotomy technicians will be able to progress and take better roles and pay with further education and working experience. Supervisory positions typically require at least a bachelors degree in medical technology or a related field.
Employment within this job market is predicted to rise steadily until 2018 and probably even beyond that. Job openings for phlebotomist in hospitals and other settings have ballooned as these institutions endeavor to match high patient census with adequate staffing. As more and more entry level phlebotomy technicians enter the market, those that have specialized skills or can multi-task as well as those who have no qualms in working far from home may have better opportunities.
