Phlebotomy Jobs - What Are The Prospects

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Phlebotomists play an important role in the medical field, because they handle the responsibility of collecting blood and other body fluid samples that doctors use for analysis.  Their responsibility only involves the collection of the samples and not specimen analysis.  Phlebotomy jobs are predicted to increase steadily within the next ten years because of the growth in the aging population of the United States, which means there will be more people who would need health care within the next decade.

Although it is only in the states of California and Louisiana that certification for phlebotomists is currently required, most employers would prefer to hire certified phlebotomists.  Certification is acquired by writing a phlebotomy certification exam conducted by any of the ten accrediting medical agencies in the United States.  Three of the major medical accrediting agencies include the American Certifying Agency (ACA) for Healthcare Professionals, the American Phlebotomy Association (APA), and the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). 

Phlebotomists are trained in the human anatomy, blood collection and proper techniques for blood storage.  They are also trained to administer CPR and other first aid procedures. They are tasked to maintain a sterile environment which is safe for sample collection and storage.  The most common phlebotomy jobs are found in laboratories, blood banks, healthcare clinics, private doctor's clinics and hospitals.  Most full-time phlebotomists work for about 40 hours a week and may have to work in shifts at hospitals.

Although the majority of phlebotomists work for a standard number of hours per week, there are also some who chose to work part-time.  Their work hours may be reduced, but their responsibilities of drawing, collecting and storing blood remain the same. 

Some phlebotomists travel to various locations to collect blood.  In some cases, hospitals may employ mobile phlebotomists to collect blood samples from people who have difficulties leaving their homes.  Blood banks may also require mobile phlebotomists to  go to different locations each week to collect blood donations. 

Phlebotomist jobs are well-paid positions in the medical industry.  A phlebotomist can earn an average of $25,000 a year, although they may earn more or less, depending on the location, their years of working experience and the nature of their employer.  Those who have been working in the field for many years, and who have obtained phlebotomy certification can earn as much as $18 per hour and are often offered better employee benefits such as a premium healthcare plan, paid leaves and holidays.

Since the profession is predicted to become competitive within a few more years, it is best to acquire an affiliated phlebotomy training program. Those who have graduated from accredited training institutions and pass the phlebotomy certification exam can look forward to a rewarding career in this field. Upon obtaining a phlebotomy certification, one should take advanced courses for continuing education. 

Most states require phlebotomists to be re-certified every one or two years.  Employment will come easy and advancement in the medical field is possible for those who have obtained their phlebotomy certification from accredited institutions.