The demand for phlebotomists is at an all-time high, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projecting a 10% growth in job openings each year. This translates to over 21,000 job opportunities being created for phlebotomists annually in the United States. Given these promising prospects, pursuing a career in phlebotomy has become increasingly attractive. However, many people wonder what phlebotomy certification is, whether it’s necessary, and how to obtain it.
So let’s address these questions, and explore the benefits of becoming a certified phlebotomist, how long the certification process takes, and the steps involved in becoming certified.
What Does It Mean to Be a Certified Phlebotomist?
A certified phlebotomist, also known as a phlebotomy technician, is an individual who has completed a specific set of requirements and passed an exam to prove their proficiency in drawing blood safely and effectively. These certification exams are conducted by nationally recognized institutions such as the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
Once an individual passes the exam, they earn the title of Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT). This certification serves as a testament to their competence and trustworthiness in performing blood draws. In the healthcare field, being certified is highly regarded and is often seen as a seal of authority in one’s ability to do the job properly.
However, before taking the certification exam, aspiring phlebotomists must complete clinical training. This involves performing a specified number of blood draws on live patients to gain hands-on experience.
The Importance of Phlebotomy Training
Proper training is essential for phlebotomy certification. There are several avenues to receive this training, including full-time college programs, online certificate programs, and local phlebotomy classes. Given the wide range of options, it can be confusing to decide which training program to pursue.
The right phlebotomy training program will cover essential domains such as patient preparation, safety, blood collection, and processing. A comprehensive program ensures that you are thoroughly prepared for both the certification exam and real-world practice.
It’s worth noting that some cheaper local programs may lack thoroughness. They might fail to train students on all necessary aspects, leaving them to find additional resources to prepare for the exam. Furthermore, many of these programs do not provide opportunities for clinical experience, instead offering practice kits to draw blood from dummies. While these kits might provide some practice, they don’t adequately prepare students for drawing blood from live patients, which can lead to a lack of confidence in their abilities. Ultimately, choosing a subpar training program can waste both time and money.
Is Phlebotomy Certification Necessary?
While most states in the U.S. do not legally require phlebotomists to be certified, obtaining certification is highly recommended for several reasons:
1. Better Job Prospects
According to a recent survey, over 93% of employers prefer to hire certified phlebotomists. Certification is a mark of trust in your skills, making you more desirable to employers such as diagnostic labs, hospitals, and outpatient centers that want to ensure their patients are in capable hands.
2. Higher Salary Potential
The median salary for certified phlebotomists is around $39,000 per year, with top earners making upwards of $47,000 annually. Certification not only makes you more employable but can also lead to higher-paying job opportunities compared to non-certified individuals. Employers often consider certification a demonstration of an individual’s dedication and expertise, which can justify higher salaries.
3. Upward Career Mobility
Certification can help phlebotomists advance within the healthcare industry. For example, if a certified phlebotomist decides to pursue a career as a nurse, having that certification listed on their resume shows a commitment to the profession and adherence to patient safety and regulations. This can set them apart from other candidates and provide an edge in career advancement.
How to Become a Certified Phlebotomist
1. Complete Training
The first step to becoming a certified phlebotomist is to enroll in a phlebotomy training program. As mentioned earlier, training options vary in terms of length and delivery method. Here’s a breakdown:
- Full-Time College Programs: These programs can take up to 12 months to complete and involve classroom learning, hands-on practice, and clinical experience. While they are comprehensive, they may require a more significant time and financial commitment.
- Online Certificate Programs: Online phlebotomist certification programs are generally more flexible and can be completed in as little as two to six months. However, it’s crucial to choose a program that offers practical experience and helps you meet clinical requirements.
- Local Phlebotomy Classes: These classes are often shorter and less expensive, but not all of them provide thorough training or opportunities to complete clinicals, which is a critical part of the certification process.
Regardless of the training option chosen, it’s vital to select a program that covers the necessary skills and knowledge areas, including patient preparation, safety protocols, blood collection, and processing.
2. Complete Clinicals
Before taking the certification exam, you must complete a certain number of blood draws on live patients, which is known as clinical experience. This hands-on practice is essential for building confidence and skill in drawing blood. Some online phlebotomy programs offer guidance on how to fulfill this requirement, so make sure to verify this when selecting a training course.
3. Pass the Certification Exam
Once your training and clinical requirements are complete, you can sit for the phlebotomy certification exam. This exam tests your knowledge and proficiency in the field. Passing it demonstrates that you have met the industry standards and are capable of performing blood draws safely and efficiently.
After passing the exam, you will receive your certification, officially becoming a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT).
How Long Does It Take to Get Certified?
The duration to become a certified phlebotomist depends on the type of training program you choose:
- Full-Time College Programs: Approximately 12 months.
- Online Certificate Programs: As little as two to six months.
The key is to choose a training program that not only provides comprehensive education but also allows you to complete your clinicals. Some programs expedite the process by offering flexible scheduling and focused curriculums, enabling you to be job-ready as a phlebotomy technician in just a few months.
Is Phlebotomy Certification Worth It?
In summary, while phlebotomy certification may not be a legal requirement in most states, it is a worthwhile investment for several reasons:
- It opens up more job opportunities, as most employers prefer hiring certified phlebotomists.
- It can lead to higher salaries, with certified professionals often earning more than their non-certified counterparts.
- It offers upward career mobility, aiding those who wish to pursue other healthcare careers.
- It builds trust with patients and employers, demonstrating a commitment to quality care and safety.
Choosing the right training program is crucial in your journey to becoming a certified phlebotomist. Opt for a comprehensive program that provides both theoretical knowledge and practical experience to prepare you thoroughly for the certification exam and your future career. By doing so, you can fast-track your path to a rewarding profession in the healthcare industry.
Jumpstart Your Healthcare Career with Preppy’s Fast-Track Phlebotomy Certification!
Preppy’s phlebotomy certification program offers a fast, affordable, and fully online path to becoming a certified phlebotomy technician. Here’s what makes our program stand out:
Program Highlights:
- No Prior Experience Needed: No college degree or healthcare experience is required to enroll.
- Complete Flexibility: Study at your own pace, entirely from the comfort of your home.
- Finish Fast: Get certified in as little as 2 months, compared to traditional programs that can take up to 2 years.
- Trusted Education Partner: Program is in partnership with Auburn University, a 150-year-old accredited nonprofit university.
- Hands-On Experience Included: Gain real-world experience through a volunteer externship at one of our partner locations. Complete the required blood draws for certification!
Why Choose Phlebotomy?
- Vital Role in Healthcare: Phlebotomists collect blood samples, which are essential for diagnosing illnesses and medical conditions.
- Make a Difference: Help patients feel calm and comfortable during blood draws, especially those with a fear of needles.
- Growing Demand: The field is expected to grow 24% from 2018 to 2028, far outpacing the average for other occupations.
- Job Security: With medical advancements and an aging population, phlebotomy technicians will continue to be in high demand.
Embark on an exciting and rewarding career in healthcare with Preppy’s online certification program!
Also read: What Does a Phlebotomist Do? Top 7 Job Duties
About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, who’s work on college affordability and accessibility has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek, Business Insider, American Express, AOL, MSN, Thrive Global, Reader’s Digest, Inside Higher Ed, Evolllution, EducationDive, and nearly 100 radio shows and podcasts.
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