Becoming a Phlebotomist in Oregon

Most people aren’t familiar with the term phlebotomist. However, every time you get blood drawn in a healthcare facility, you interact with one of these skilled medical technicians. Phlebotomists do more than draw blood. They also make sure the sample you provide is entered correctly into medical databases. In addition, they uphold confidentiality standards and coordinate with doctors and other staff members.

Phlebotomy Training and Certification Requirements

Oregon has no set procedure for phlebotomist licensing or training. The state also lacks a requirement for phlebotomist certification. However, this does not mean you can forego training and certification before seeking work in Oregon. Many employers prefer job candidates who can demonstrate their training background. In addition, some employers may make proof of certification a requirement for all job applicants.

Needed Skills and Knowledge

You need a variety of skills to work as a phlebotomist. These skills include the ability to accurately and safely draw blood. They also include competence in data entry and the use of medical terminology.

You must also possess knowledge in several key areas. For example, you must understand the basics of human anatomy and physiology. In addition, you must understand medical ethics and current HIPAA guidelines for patient confidentiality. A well-rounded training course will cover all of these topics.

Training Options for Oregon Phlebotomists

You can seek phlebotomy training from a variety of Oregon institutions. The entry requirements for each institution may vary somewhat. However, age and education restrictions are common (usually 18 and older with a high school diploma or GED). Available program options include:

The Portland Community College Phlebotomy Technician Program – This extensive program is designed to meet the training standards of the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP). Training is broken down into two parts. First, you’ll receive 90 hours of instruction in the form of both classwork and laboratory sessions. In the second part of the program, you’ll receive 100 hours of practical experience while working clinical rotations with area healthcare professionals.
Lane Community College Phlebotomy Program – This program is also focused on meeting the guidelines of the ASCP. Over two terms of instruction, you’ll receive comprehensive exposure to the skills and knowledge needed by working phlebotomists. Once you’ve completed the program and have a year of employment under your belt, you’ll be ready to take your ASCP-sanctioned national certification exam.
Oregon Medical Training Phlebotomy Technician Course – This course provides thorough grounding in the skills needed to secure your first phlebotomist job. It includes a mixture of classroom instruction and hands-on familiarization with blood-drawing procedures. Program participants also get the chance to observe technicians working in a professional laboratory.

Potential Income for Oregon Phlebotomists

The average annual salary for Oregon phlebotomists is more than $40,000. Professionals working in the state exceed the nationwide income average by about $5,000. Figures from Indeed.com show that the highest reported earnings for Oregon phlebotomists are found in Corvallis. Other cities with standout earnings potential include Roseburg and Eugene. Veteran phlebotomists can expect to earn top dollar, while newcomers generate substantially smaller incomes.

Job Prospects for the Phlebotomy Profession

If you work in Oregon, you can combine high phlebotomist salaries with plentiful job opportunities. Federal figures show that open positions in the phlebotomy profession will be common for the foreseeable future. In fact, between 2018 and 2028, one in every four phlebotomists will occupy a newly created opening.