How to Become a Phlebotomist in Pennsylvania
Phlebotomists are essential medical technicians found across the country in hospitals, doctor’s offices and other healthcare facilities. They specialize in drawing and handling patient blood samples. To perform their jobs well, phlebotomists must possess knowledge in several important areas. In addition, they must have people skills that allow them to interact well with both patients and other medical professionals.
You can make a good living working as a phlebotomist in Pennsylvania. In fact, salaries in the state sit close to the average for the nation as a whole. Looking for information on how you can get started working in this vital, rewarding field? This brief guide provides some of the highlights of what you need to know.
Pennsylvania Training and Certification Requirements
Unlike some states, Pennsylvania does not require you to hold any particular certification to work as a phlebotomist. However, this doesn’t mean you don’t have to make preparations before seeking work. The average hospital or medical office will expect phlebotomist candidates to have some sort of training. To enter a typical training course, you will need to:
- Be 18 years or older
- Hold a high school diploma or a GED
Many healthcare organizations expect more from their phlebotomy staff than minimal training. For this reason, it’s worth enrolling in a program that holds accreditation from a well-regarded organization like the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Services (NAACLS). By completing coursework in one of these programs, you demonstrate your commitment to your profession. You also signal to employers that you possess the skills needed to produce top-notch work on a daily basis.
Training Options for Phlebotomists in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania residents have a range of options for phlebotomy training within the state. Examples of available programs include:
- Montgomery County Community College Phlebotomy Certificate – Based at its central campus in Blue Bell, Pa, the school’s certification program is accredited by the NAACLS. All participants learn the core skills needed to meet the professional standards of a working phlebotomist. In addition, the program focuses on building solid interpersonal skills. Just as importantly, MCCC provides you with the background you need to get certified in phlebotomy at a national level.
- Bucks Community College Phlebotomy Certificate – This extensive program provides comprehensive training in phlebotomy. Instruction covers all procedures and techniques used by employed phlebotomists. It also covers a range of additional subjects, including, human anatomy, medical ethics and medical law. Graduates with a solid grade average can take part in an additional phlebotomy “externship” program. This externship provides 120 hours of real-world experience in a medical facility.
- McCann School of Business &Technology Phlebotomy Training – This program is based in Allentown, PA. It focuses on critical topics such as phlebotomy theory and practice, anatomy, physiology and use of medical terminology. The program also provides its graduates with career assistance services.
Career Outlook and Salary Expectations
The average annual salary for phlebotomists in Pennsylvania is $39,090, which is competitive with the national average of $38,530. Location continues to play a significant role in earnings within the state. Phlebotomists in Pennsylvania can earn as much as $46,690 or more, particularly in regions like Philadelphia and the surrounding metropolitan areas. The data indicates that the income for phlebotomists in Pennsylvania is robust across various regions, with opportunities for higher earnings based on experience and location.
National vs. Pennsylvania Phlebotomist Salaries
| United States | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|
| Average Salary | $38,530 | $39,090 |
| Low (10%) | $30,250 | $33,060 |
| High (90%) | $51,610 | $46,690 |
Pennsylvania Phlebotomist Salaries by Region
| Region | Low (10%) | Median (50%) | High (90%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD | $36,850 | $44,860 | $50,870 |
| Erie, PA | $32,480 | $36,150 | $44,390 |
Phlebotomists Employment Trends in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, the employment trends for phlebotomists are looking up, with a projected growth of 17% from 2020 to 2030. The state had 6,260 phlebotomists employed in 2020, and this number is expected to increase to 7,300 by 2030. This growth rate is more than double the national average of 8% for the same period. Additionally, Pennsylvania is expected to have 890 annual job openings for phlebotomists, which includes new jobs and replacements.
In comparison, the United States as a whole had 139,400 phlebotomists employed in 2022, with a projection to increase to 150,200 by 2032. The projected annual job openings nationwide are estimated to be 19,500 from 2022 to 2032.
Table of Employment Trends Data
| Location | Employment (Year) | Projected Employment (Year) | Projected Growth | Projected Annual Job Openings (Year Range) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 6,260 (2020) | 7,300 (2030) | 17% | 890 (2020-2030) |
| United States | 139,400 (2022) | 150,200 (2032) | 8% (Faster than average) | 19,500 (2022-2032) |
Sources of Data:
- Pennsylvania Data Source: The employment projections for Pennsylvania are sourced from Projections Central’s 2020-2030 long-term projections.
- United States Data Source: The national data for the United States is sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2022-2032 employment projections.
What’s It Like to Work as a Phlebotomist in Pennsylvania?
Working as a phlebotomist in Pennsylvania is a promising career choice, with a projected employment growth of 17% by 2030, indicating a strong job market. Phlebotomists in the state can expect competitive salaries, especially in urban areas. Their work environment varies from hospitals to labs and donor centers, where they perform crucial blood draws for medical testing. The role demands technical skill, adherence to safety protocols, and a compassionate demeanor with patients. Pennsylvania offers a diverse range of workplaces, catering to a variety of preferences for living and working conditions.