Phlebotomist Jobs
The field of phlebotomy is expected to experience a growth spurt of 25% in the years from 2016 to 2026. This impressive figure is much faster than the average for all occupations, which is merely 7%. With easy entry, low cost education and lucrative salary, getting into the field of phlebotomy is becoming an increasingly attractive prospect.
Phlebotomy jobs are on the rise in multiple locations across the US. California has the highest number of jobs for phlebotomists with 12,190 positions. Texas comes in second, with 9,210 jobs. The prospects for phlebotomists in California are great, since it is also the highest paying state in this occupation – phlebotomist salary in California is $45,030 (annual mean wage), as per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
If you want to become a phlebotomist, the following information would be worth a read for you.
How to Become a Phlebotomist?
- Complete the academic requirements
You will need a high school diploma or a GED at least.
- Complete a phlebotomy training course
You will need to get a postsecondary non-degree award from a community college, a technical school or a vocational school. This training program would teach you tasks such as drawing blood, interacting with patients and labeling blood samples. Some courses might also cover legal aspects of the medicine business.
- Become certified
Nearly all employers in this field hire phlebotomists who have earned a professional certification. You may earn your certification through organizations such as The National Center for Competency Testing, the National Healthcareer Association, the National Phlebotomy Association, the American Medical Technologists or the American Society for Clinical Pathologists.
Those applying for a certification in phlebotomy need some classroom education, along with some clinical experience. The certification test usually involves a written exam and some practical components.
Phlebotomist Job Description
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Phlebotomists “draw blood for tests, transfusions, research, or blood donations. Some of them explain their work to patients and provide assistance if patients have adverse reactions after their blood is drawn.”
In 2016, as per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, phlebotomists held nearly 122,700 jobs, with an addition of 30,100 expected in the coming decade. Phlebotomists typically work in hospitals, medical and diagnostic labs, ambulatory healthcare services, offices of physicians or outpatient care centers. They may also have to collect blood donations from different locations and set up mobile donation centers.
Their job might require standing for long hours, dealing with needles and medical supplies, and providing emergency management services in ambulances. Most phlebotomists work full time and may also have to put in night, weekend or holiday shifts.
How Much Do Phlebotomists Make?
According to May 2018 data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, phlebotomists made an annual median wage of $34,480, which translates to approximately $16.58 per hour. The highest 10 percent in the industry made more than $49,060, while the lowest 10 percent earned $25,020. The top paying industry for phlebotomists was outpatient care centers, paying $39,420.