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.
How Much Do Pennsylvania Phlebotomists Make?
The average salary for a Pennsylvania phlebotomist is just over $34,800 a year. This compares well to the national average of just over $35,500 a year. Researchers at Indeed.com report that your location can have a sizable impact on your annual earnings in Pennsylvania. The most well-paid phlebotomists in the state work in Erie, Philadelphia and Lebanon.
Future Prospects for Phlebotomists
Figures from the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics show that the phlebotomy profession is ripe for growth. Between 2018 and 2028, the nationwide number of working phlebotomists will increase by about 23 percent. This rate of growth is far faster than you’ll find in most other professions across America. Since Pennsylvania is essentially an average market for phlebotomists, it’s likely that similar job growth will occur in cities located in the state.