Phlebotomy Schools
February 6, 2012
Obtaining your Phlebotomist Certification
Phlebotomist certification is necessary for anyone wishing to enter into the growing health care field, phlebotomy technicians are increasingly in demand and can offer a life-time of rewarding career opportunities. Phlebotomists are trained professionals who draw blood from patients that are generally used for the purpose of diagnosis, blood donations, and drug tests for employers, etc. Before entering into a phlebotomy training program students will need to have their high school diploma or GED as well as basic science courses.
Curriculum for Phlebotomist Certification
Once a phlebotomist certification or phlebotomy degree is obtained graduates will need to acquire hands-on training as well as their phlebotomist certification. Practical training can be found through apprenticeship programs at community clinics, hospitals, medical laboratories or in some cases a physician’s office. Phlebotomy certification exams are offered by The American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT) who administers a test which covers all aspects of one’s knowledge of the practice.
When researching community colleges or vocational schools that offer phlebotomy programs, it is important to ensure that the institutions you are considering are accredited and recognized by medical facilities within the area that you will be seeking employment. Prospective students are also advised to enter into a program that provides modules of practical hands-on training and that the course material will adequately prepare you to take your phlebotomy certification exam. Once you have obtained your phlebotomist certification and have relevant real-time training, continuing education to keep apprised of current practices is vital as your phlebotomist certification license must be renewed annually.
There are a wide variety of health care professionals who routinely practice phlebotomy such as:
- Medical Assistants
- Military Medics
- EMT personnel
- Medical Technologists
- Disease Intervention Specialists
- Radiologic Technologist
- Physician assistants
- Nurses (RN, LPN, LVN)
- Physicians
For those who work full-time and are not able to attend a traditional college or vocational school some accredited colleges also offer online phlebotomy training programs that will prepare students to pass their online phlebotomy certification upon graduation. Again, the important thing to remember when searching for an online or distance education phlebotomy program or is to verify the school’s accreditation standing. Regulations for phlebotomists can vary from state to state with most employers requiring different levels of certification such as Phlebotomy I, II or III. For this reason it is highly recommended that all graduates of a phlebotomy degree or certificate program take their phlebotomy certification exam. Certification will also qualify one to work in any state they wish and will open doors to career advancement that would otherwise not be available.
There are many accredited phlebotomy technician college programs throughout the United States including:
- Apollo College; Spokane, WA
- Baker College of Owosso; Owosso, MI
- Davenport University; Grand Rapids, MI
- Baker College of Auburn; Auburn, MI
- Mount Wachusett Community College; Gardner, MA
- Bunker Hill Community College; Boston, MA
- Cameron College; New Orleans, LA
- Bossier Parish Community College; Bossier City, LA
- Des Moines Area Community College; Ankeny, IA
- Lanier Technical College; Oakwood, GA
- Lee County High Tech Center Central; Ft Myers, FL
- Ultimate Medical Academy; Clearwater, FL
- Dixie State College of Utah; Boca Raton, FL
- Pueblo Community College; Pueblo, CO
With the continued growth of the health care industry, phlebotomy training is an ideal way to enter into the field and realize a personally and financially rewarding career. Simply remember to verify a school’s accreditation standing, ensure that there will be provisions for hands-on training and contact The American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians to obtain your phlebotomist certification.
Books on Phlebotomy Certification
