Becoming a Phlebotomist in Hawaii

In all 50 states, the healthcare system depends on the contributions of trained medical technicians. Among these trained professionals are thousands of phlebotomists. People in the phlebotomy field focus on the safe, accurate drawing and processing of blood samples. Some phlebotomists work away from the public in laboratory settings. However, others work directly with the public in hospitals, senior centers, doctors’ offices and other locations.

What Are the Requirements for Hawaii Phlebotomists?

Hawaii is just one of many states that maintain no formal process for licensing phlebotomists. Without the need to obtain a license, you won’t have to navigate much red tape before you can start working. However, you still must keep certain facts in mind.

Perhaps the biggest thing to focus on is the need for some kind of training in phlebotomy. Why do you need to get trained? There are two chief reasons. First, phlebotomy isn’t just about drawing blood. You must also master a range of other skills, including:

Navigation of the computer systems used to catalog and track blood samples
Effective, knowledgeable interaction with doctors, lab technicians and other professionals
Adherence to the confidentiality requirements that safeguard patient privacy

The second reason for getting trained is just as important. Namely, training increases your chances of finding a job. No reputable healthcare organization will hire people who don’t know what they’re doing. The more you can demonstrate your competence, the better you’ll look in the eyes of any would-be employers.

Seeking Phlebotomy Training

The best way to prove your abilities is to complete a high-quality phlebotomy training program. A well-designed program will teach you everything a starting phlebotomist needs to know. In addition, it will help you to take a national phlebotomy certification exam. By passing this kind of exam, you’ll provide even more proof that you know how to tackle a phlebotomist’s duties in a range of work environments.

Hawaii Training Options

As an isolated state with a relatively small population, Hawaii doesn’t have as many phlebotomist training options as some other states. Still, Hawaii residents do have solid programs to choose from. Examples include:

The University of Hawaii Kapiolani Community College Phlebotomy Program – This program provides newcomers with over 100 hours in phlebotomy training. Upon completion, you’ll have the knowledge needed to sit for the American Society for Clinical Pathology’s national certification exam. The University also offers a second program for people already employed as phlebotomists.
The Hawaii Medical Training Center Certified Phlebotomy Technician Program – This six-week program focuses heavily on the development of practical phlebotomy skills. You’ll make your first blood draw in the first week of class. Over succeeding weeks, you’ll widen and deepen your skill set.

Potential Earnings for Hawaii Phlebotomists

The salary average for Hawaii phlebotomists is about $40,600 a year. That’s several thousand dollars more than the nationwide average for people working in this field. When you’re just starting out, your income will likely fall well below $40,000. However, with time, your earnings may well exceed the statewide average.

What Does the Future Look Like for Phlebotomists?

While certain sectors of the American job market are contracting, the phlebotomy field is expanding. In the next few years, thousands of new positions will open up across the country. In places like Hawaii, this means that the prospects for finding work will probably grow over time.