Working as a Phlebotomist in Wyoming
Choosing a career in healthcare can often mean undergoing extensive and expensive training; however, there are certain options for those who wish to take a more streamlined approach. One such option is a career in phlebotomy.
Phlebotomists are well-known as the primary person who collects blood for diagnostic testing, but there is a lot more to the profession than performing needle sticks. Phlebotomists have to acquire a great deal of knowledge about the specimens they are collecting and what a technologist will need for specific test. This can include knowing the optimal time and physiologic state for testing, which collection tubes must be completely full and how to perform specialized procedures.
As the most likely laboratory professional to interact with the public, phlebotomists are the friendly face of diagnostic testing. It is important to remember that patients are often anxious about their health concerns and fearful about the blood draw procedure. Maintaining a compassionate and calm demeanor, especially during difficult patient interactions, is an essential aspect of working in the field.
Along with blood draws, phlebotomists are often responsible for the collection of other types of specimens such as urine, sputum and stool. The phlebotomist will not only need to instruct patients on proper collection methods, but will also need to receive collected samples and ensure they are appropriately labeled and stored. Phlebotomists are also often involved in preparing specimens for testing using various laboratory methods.
Licensing in Wyoming
Wyoming has no oversight board for phlebotomists in the state, nor does it require those in the profession to seek licensing. However, since phlebotomists work in the heavily regulated medical profession, they will face significant oversight in the workplace. In most cases, this will mean being under the supervision of a licensed physician.
Wyoming Training Programs
To begin working as a phlebotomist, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent along with specific training in laboratory collection methods. Although on-the-job training was once standard in the industry, modern phlebotomists generally seek instruction from a certified course. Some of the possible choices in Wyoming include:
- Central Wyoming College offers a Phlebotomy Certificate. Students will learn to assemble and maintain blood drawing equipment as well as obtain samples for testing.
- Laramie County Community College offers a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant program. Along with blood collection, students will be trained to assist with the common clinical procedures performed in a doctor’s office.
- Casper College offers a Phlebotomy Technician Training Certificate. The curriculum prepares students for work as a phlebotomist in a hospital, doctor’s office or laboratory setting.
Phlebotomy Accreditation
In Wyoming, phlebotomists are not required by law to become certified prior to working in the field. However, for those who wish to showcase their professionalism and accelerate their career choices, certification is smart. Many organizations offer credentialing, and it is important to consider which one local employers prefer before taking your examination.
Salaries and Career Growth Expectations in Wyoming
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), phlebotomists in Wyoming made between $27,900 and $41,580 in 2019. The state’s mean wages fell in at $32,660, slightly below the national average for the profession.
As for job growth projections, phlebotomists are experiencing significant growth overall, with a projected increase in Wyoming of 25 percent over the next ten years.
Phlebotomists in Wyoming
In Wyoming, organizations like UHS, Biolife Plasma Services, Takeda and Interactive Health recruit for and hire phlebotomists. In general, the career can be demanding of your time, with phlebotomists often working nights, weekends, holidays and early morning hours. Regardless of the challenges, a career in phlebotomy has the potential to be fulfilling and rewarding to anyone who enjoys caring for others.