Phlebotomy Field 101
Phlebotomy techs collect blood for donation or testing and send it off so the blood can be analyzed in a clinical laboratory. A phlebotomist might prick a finger or collect blood from a vein, depending on how much is needed. Your role as a phlebotomist is also to keep a nervous patient calm while collecting enough blood for testing.
Where do phlebotomists work?
Some work in labs, while others work in hospitals, community health centers, or clinics. A phlebotomist is a key member of a clinical lab team.
How long does it take to become a phlebotomist?
The MedCerts Phlebotomy Technician program takes 11 weeks to complete.
What lessons does a phlebotomist need?
By the end of a phlebotomy program, students should have a solid understanding of medical terminology, and anatomy and physiology to effectively draw blood. Additionally, they should understand healthcare settings and the role of a phlebotomy technician in those settings. Developing a compassionate attitude, communication skills, and a firm understanding of healthcare laws are also a core part of a phlebotomist’s role.
Our program has three parts:
- Customer Service Professional (1 week)
- Introduction to Human Anatomy and Medical Terminology (6 weeks)
- Phlebotomy (4 weeks)
Getting into the Phlebotomy Field
Check out any phlebotomist job listing, and you’ll likely see employers prefer to hire phlebotomists who have a professional certification. To achieve this, you’ll typically spend time in a classroom or in online modules learning practical components of drawing blood.
How do you become a certified phlebotomist?
You’ll need to go through an approved and reputable program that allows hands-on experience and coursework to understand basic medical terminology, disease processes, and laws like HIPAA. Upon passing the national test known as the Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) exam, you’ll be able to apply for phlebotomy positions.
What’s the job outlook for a phlebotomist?
The job market looks promising for phlebotomists. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Handbook, the phlebotomy field is expecting 24.5% growth over the next 10 years.
Some of the top national employers of phlebotomists include:
- American Red Cross
- Laboratory Corporation of America
- Quest Diagnostics Incorporated
- Professional Services Corporation
- Community Health Systems
Why Choose MedCerts for Your Phlebotomy Education?
Our all-inclusive program makes it easy to get started with all your materials from the first day you enroll. Your program rate includes experiential learning, exam prep manual, required books, exam registration, and all other necessary materials.
MedCerts phlebotomy program benefits:
- One of only a few exclusively online programs in the market
- Expert-led video-based lectures
- Interactive simulations, virtual environment & skill demo videos
- Low costs compared to community college tuition
- Entry-level career opportunity with advancement options
Enrollment eligibility requirements:
- Applicants must be 18 years of age or older
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Note most employers will require suitable vision and hearing (normal or corrected)
- Finger agility, hand-eye coordination, psychomotor skills (may be required by employers)
- Ability to stand for long periods
Our program prepares future phlebotomists to work with patients in healthcare facilities, doctors’ offices, clinics, and hospitals. As a MedCerts student, we will assist you in finding a site to complete the hands-on experience requirements before sitting for the Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) exam.
Ready to start your phlebotomy career? We’d love to help you get enrolled. Reach out to an education consultant today for more program details!
