The healthcare industry is continuously expanding, and with it, the demand for skilled phlebotomists is on the rise. Pursuing a career in phlebotomy can be a rewarding and fulfilling choice, but how long is phlebotomy training? In this blog post, we’ll explore the different educational paths to become a phlebotomist and the steps involved in achieving this goal.
Key Points
- Phlebotomy training duration can range from 4 months to 1.5 years, depending on the type of program chosen.
- A high school diploma or GED is a necessary requirement for enrollment in phlebotomy training programs.
- Professional certification as a phlebotomist takes approximately two weeks and provides improved job prospects and higher earning potential.
Phlebotomy Training Duration
Wondering how long does it take to complete phlebotomy training? Typically, it takes between 4 months and 1.5 years, depending on the type of program chosen. The duration of your training will depend on whether you opt for an online program, a certificate program at a community college, or an associate degree program.
Each approved phlebotomy program at our phlebotomy school combines classroom education with practical training, ensuring that you’re well-equipped to handle the demands of a phlebotomy career as a phlebotomy technician.
Online Programs
Online phlebotomy programs offer students the convenience of learning from home while still providing a comprehensive education in the fundamentals of phlebotomy. These programs typically take 4 to 8 weeks to complete and cover topics such as:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Infection control
- Blood drawing techniques
The cost of online phlebotomy programs ranges from $700 to $1,300, making them an affordable option for many individuals.
While online programs offer flexibility, they also require students to practice phlebotomy skills on their own. Some programs may provide a draw kit for practicing how to draw blood on volunteers at home, while others may help arrange clinical training through an externship to gain experience. It’s essential to consider these practical training aspects when choosing an online phlebotomy program.
Certificate Programs at Community Colleges
Certificate programs at community colleges are another popular option for aspiring phlebotomists. These programs typically take 12 to 16 weeks to complete and provide hands-on experience under the guidance of an in-person instructor. This practical training is essential for clinical pathology, as well as for developing the skills needed to work in a healthcare setting. The cost of a phlebotomy certificate program at a community college ranges from $600 to $2,000, making it an affordable choice for many students.
In addition to classroom training, certificate programs at community colleges often include clinical training, allowing students to practice specimen collection and venipuncture techniques in a real-world setting. This hands-on experience can be invaluable for building confidence and honing skills before entering the workforce.
Associate Degree Programs
For those seeking a more extensive education, associate degree programs in phlebotomy may be an option. These two-year programs provide a comprehensive education that covers not only phlebotomy but also other areas of healthcare. However, the cost of an associate degree program can range from $20,000 to $40,000, making it a more expensive option compared to certificate programs.
While an associate degree program offers a more in-depth education, it’s essential to consider whether the additional cost and time investment are necessary for your career goals. Many aspiring phlebotomists find that a certificate program without a degree is more cost-effective and efficient, allowing them to enter the workforce sooner and start gaining valuable experience.
Steps to Becoming a Phlebotomist
To become a phlebotomist, you’ll need to follow several steps.
- First, obtain a high school diploma or GED.
- Next, complete a phlebotomy training program, choosing from online programs, certificate programs at community colleges, or associate degree programs.
- Finally, obtaining professional certification from a recognized body such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), or the American Medical Technologists (AMT) can improve your job opportunities and demonstrate your commitment to the profession.
High School Diploma or GED
Before enrolling in a phlebotomy training program, you’ll need to obtain a high school diploma or GED. A high school diploma typically requires four years of study, while preparation for the GED exam takes around three months.
Having a high school diploma or GED is a crucial step in the path towards becoming a phlebotomist, as it serves as the minimum requirement for entry into most phlebotomy training programs.
Complete Phlebotomy Training Program
Once you’ve obtained your high school diploma or GED, the next step is to complete a phlebotomy training program. As previously mentioned, there are various program options available, including online programs, certificate programs at community colleges, and associate degree programs. When choosing a program, consider factors such as cost, duration, and the amount of hands-on training provided.
The phlebotomy training curriculum focuses on essential topics like medical terminology, human anatomy and physiology, and preserving the quality of blood samples when drawing blood. Practical training is also a critical component of phlebotomy education, ensuring that students can confidently and competently perform their duties upon entering the workforce.
Regardless of the program chosen, completing a phlebotomy training program equips aspiring phlebotomists with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in their chosen career. By the end of the program, students should be proficient in:
- Drawing blood
- Handling specimens
- Understanding the importance of infection control
- Providing patient care
Obtain Professional Certification
After completing a phlebotomy training program, it’s essential to obtain professional certification to become a certified phlebotomy technician, which will improve your job prospects and demonstrate your commitment to the profession. Organizations like the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), the American Medical Technologists (AMT), and the National Phlebotomy Association offer certification exams for phlebotomists. These exams typically cover topics related to phlebotomy procedures, infection control, and patient care.
The process of obtaining professional certification usually takes about two weeks after successfully passing the certification exam. In addition to enhancing your job prospects, certification can also lead to higher earning potential, as the demand for certified phlebotomists continues to grow.
Summary
In summary, becoming a phlebotomist requires dedication and commitment to education and training. The journey begins with obtaining a high school diploma or GED, followed by completing a phlebotomy training program that suits your needs, be it an online program, a certificate program at a community college, or an associate degree program.
Lastly, obtaining professional certification can open doors to better job opportunities and higher earning potential. With the growing demand for skilled phlebotomists, now is an excellent time to pursue this rewarding and fulfilling career.
Further Reading
- Online Phlebotomy Technician Certification | ACT
- Phlebotomy Program – D-H Workforce Readiness
- How to Become a Phlebotomist | Salary
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a phlebotomy take?
The phlebotomy procedure typically takes about 30-45 minutes, including the necessary resting period afterwards. No special preparations are needed before the procedure.
Is becoming a phlebotomy technician hard?
Becoming a phlebotomy technician is relatively straightforward and requires minimal training, with only four states requiring certification. It does require lots of training and practice, but most of the learning can be done on the job.
It may be difficult for those who are sensitive to the sight of bodily fluids.
How long is phlebotomy school in Ohio?
Phlebotomy school in Ohio consists of 40 hours of in-class training, bookwork, hands-on training and an exam at the end.
How to become phlebotomist?
To become a phlebotomist, start by earning your high school diploma or GED, then enroll in a phlebotomy program and get certified.
Next, apply for a license if necessary and search for job openings, before finally maintaining your certification to stay up to date on the latest phlebotomy techniques.
How long does it take to become a certified phlebotomist?
Phlebotomy training typically ranges from 4 months to 1.5 years, and certification can be obtained within two weeks of completing the program.