Phlebotomy Certification - What Are The Requirements

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One of the fields in the medical profession that is fast becoming popular these days is phlebotomy.  It is predicted by the US Bureau of Labor that the demand for phlebotomists will increase steadily within the next ten years.  So if you have plans to become a phlebotomist, you should consider getting a phlebotomy certification for the job in order to increase your chances of getting hired in a field that is fast becoming competitive.

Although not all states require future phlebotomists to obtain a phlebotomy certification, most employers give priority to applicants who have obtained their certificates.  Hospitals, laboratories and private blood clinics would prefer to hire certified professionals in order to make sure that their employees will not cause any medical liability in the future. Becoming a certified phlebotomist, therefore, is a smart move if you want to succeed in this field.

You would need to go through a phlebotomy training program, which a community college or  hospital near you may be offering.  It is typical for phlebotomy programs to have an on-campus lectures and on-the-job sessions.  Most programs range from 8-24 months, depending on how intensive the training the student is aiming for. 

Training academies or phlebotomy schools that offer a 2-year course usually give an associate's degree to students upon finishing the course.  Most of the on-the-job component of a phlebotomy training program is done in medical laboratories or hospitals, where students are given opportunities to practice and hone their skills in phlebotomy. 

For some students who are unable to attend on-campus training programs, there are online courses that can lead to a phlebotomy certification.  However, a certain amount of on-the-job training hours is still required in order for the student to graduate.

After completing the phlebotomy training course, you can prepare for the certification exam.  Today, there are ten accrediting bodies that can issue the certificate to a qualified student.  The most common of these organizations are the APT, ASCP and the NPA.  You can search online on the requirements for certification from these organizations and prepare for the exam. 

Some employers may require you to get re-certified every one or two years, so it is necessary to take continuing education courses that will prepare you for updating your phlebotomy certification.

Each state has different requirements and some, such as California, has a three-level certification rule.  The phlebotomy training programs in California, therefore, are designed to prepare students to become phlebotomy technician levels I-III.  If you obtain the highest level of training, you are more qualified for advanced jobs in the field.  This will not only give you opportunities for higher salaries but can also lead to more job opportunities in the future.

Although your state may not require a phlebotomy certification before you can work as a phlebotomy technician in laboratories and hospitals, you should still consider getting certified, as certified professionals are often offered higher salaries and better opportunities during their first year of work.  You also have better chances for career advancement if you continue to upgrade your certification, which proves your mastery of the phlebotomy principles.