The art of drawing blood is called phlebotomy, and those who practice phlebotomy training are referred to as phlebotomists. In order to become a phlebotomist, some sort of phlebotomy training is required, though the type required and the regulations surrounding the requirements are varied, depending on where the person works.
Phlebotomy Training Locations
Phlebotomists work in hospitals, clinics, blood banks, and anywhere else that blood is drawn for medical or testing purposes. Some people work strictly as phlebotomists, while others do it as part of their larger job profile, such as medical assistant or orderly. It is a skill that requires more training than immediately apparent.
Currently, there are only two states in the US that require phlebotomy training certification in order to work legally as a phlebotomist. In the UK, Australia, and the other 48 states, phlebotomy training certification is recommended in order to be an attractive potential hire, but not required to do the job. If you plan on seeking a job as a phlebotomist, however, this will be much easier if you have a certificate in hand. To take your education to the next level, consider the online degree options available at Belhaven Jackson.
Organizations Offering Phlebotomy Training
Many different organizations offer certification exams, and which one you choose is probably only important if you plan to work in a regulated state. In these states, only the certifications of certain examination boards are considered valid for satisfying the requirement, so check into the laws of your state before taking an exam.
Some phlebotomists come by their job in a roundabout way. In all the places where certification is not required to work as a phlebotomist, on the job phlebotomy training is at least still present, if not common. It used to be the only way that phlebotomists were trained, but now there are many formal phlebotomy training programs, as well as these less formal methods of learning.
Phlebotomy Training Programs
For people who want to become phlebotomists, participating in a program that will provide knowledge of the skill set required, practice in the art of drawing blood, and completion of the requirements to take the certification exam can be done at their local community college or trade school, usually. These courses involve some academic work on human anatomy and proper procedure, as well as practicals in the subject.
Courses for taking the certification exam just in phlebotomy training range in length from one day to six weeks, with most taking about three or four weeks. But for people who want to expand their job prospects, certified medical assistants (CMAs) or certified nursing assistants (CNAs) require only about a year of training, and then take a certification exam that covers phlebotomy, as well as other topics. They are often hired as phlebotomists, in addition to their other possible job functions.
Phlebotomists don’t make a lot of money, but the training courses are relatively short and cheap, and it is a good way for people interested in the medical profession, but with a limited amount of time or money, to get their foot in the door. The entire healthcare profession is also growing by leaps and bounds, so the chances of securing a job are pretty good, especially if you have completed the phlebotomy training certification process.
