If you want to become a Phlebotomist the first step is to get solid training. Read through this page to get a clear idea of how the process of becoming a Phlebotomist works.

Phlebotomy training courses or programs provide individuals with essential skills and credentials to land a lucrative job position. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, there will be a high demand for trained phlebotomists in health care facilities, in the coming years. This means that there is a need for these professionals to undergo training, so they can find employment in the medical industry.

Phlebotomy Training Program

The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science accredits the phlebotomy training programs. Upon completion of the program, phlebotomy students may undertake tasks required in hospitals and clinics including making micro-collection samples and drawing blood. A training course equips students with certain skills and knowledge related to phlebotomy. In addition, the program serves as a preparation for a certification exam. Typically, a course may last from one to eight months, depending on the type of program chosen. Students may also attend online training courses or a crash course in this medical field.

Phlebotomy Training Requirements

Those who wish to become a registered and licensed phlebotomist should complete an Associate’s Degree in Phlebotomy or a certificate course from an accredited institution or community college. Students can obtain a degree in only two years, although a certificate course is a shorter route to qualify for a certification exam. Medical professionals who plan to undergo phlebotomy training may enroll in programs relevant to the field. These programs may take only a few months to complete because these professionals have attained a solid background in health care and science.

Cost of Training Programs

The total cost of training programs depends on several factors such as the type of program, as well as the state where the student resides. Below is a typical list of expenses for a basic training course in phlebotomy.

• Duration of course: 80 hours (4 hours per session for 10 weeks)
• Internship: A maximum of 5 weeks in any affiliated medical facility
• Course tuition and fees: $2,300
• Book and exam fees: $125
• Registration fee: $75
• Miscellaneous fees: $107

Total cost of the program: $2,607

Students may also opt to enroll in community colleges that offer certificate programs. These courses provide students relevant information on keeping the samples clean, drawing blood from patients, managing records, and communicating with patients. In addition, students will learn how to handle emergency cases and perform tests on the collected specimens.

The training cost depends on the type of institution that offers the course, whether it is a community college or trade school. In most cases, the total fee may reach up to $600, and the course duration is for two semesters or two weeks. Some trade schools require applicants to have a high school diploma. Students are also required to attain a G.E.D before they complete the course.

Phlebotomy Certification

Those who were able to complete their training course in phlebotomy should apply for certification, so they could find employment. In most states, applicants are required to have a license before they can work in a health care setting. Phlebotomists should pass the certification examination, so they can obtain a professional license. Several organizations provide these examinations including the Association of Phlebotomy Technicians, National Phlebotomy Association, and American Society for Clinical Pathology.

Bottom Line

Phlebotomy training equips individuals with proper skills and technique in performing the duties expected from a phlebotomist. In addition, it serves as a pathway for professionals in obtaining advanced job positions and advancement in their career.

Now What?

You may already be convinced that you want to embark on a career as a Phlebotomist. If you are you should proceed to find a course that meets your requirements and enroll in it. If you are not convinced and you want to learn more about the Phlebotomy profession, read some or all of the following articles:

• What is Phlebotomy?
• Phlebotomy Job Description
• Phlebotomy Schools
• Phlebotomy Courses
• Phlebotomy Certification
• Phlebotomy Certification Online
• Phlebotomy Jobs
• Phlebotomy Resume
• Phlebotomy Salary

Resources:

American Society for Clinical Pathology – ASCP

Association of Phlebotomy Technicians – ASPT

National Phlebotomy Association – NPA

The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science – NAACLS

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – BLS