The BLS estimates that phlebotomy positions will increase by 25% between 2014 and 2024. An increase of 28,100 phlebotomy jobs shows much more growth than the average US job market. Phlebotomy technician salaries are also increasing. Are you interested in becoming a phlebotomist, but unsure about the educational requirements? Let’s take a look at whether or not education is worth it to enter the field of phlebotomy.
What is Phlebotomy Education?
A phlebotomy education is typically undertaken in order to attain a CPT1 certification. This is commonly done through the NCCT—an accredited testing organization. National certification is not technically “required,” but it is extremely helpful and almost essential in obtaining employment as a phlebotomist.
Many degree-based schools such as community colleges will hold phlebotomy certificate programs that can either work with a 2-year or 4-year program or as a stand-alone certificate. These classes are commonly offered in a unit-based format ranging between 6 and 10 unit hours over the course of an academic semester. Medical Vocational Schools offer phlebotomy training programs as well, some in similar unit-based formats.
Many training programs offer hands-on classroom training that allows you to attain your CPT1
certification in 5 weeks. PhlebotomyU, for example, is a 5-week course that includes 20 hours of basic didactic training, 20 hours of advanced didactic training, 40-60 hours of hands-on classroom training, and 40-120 externship hours with a partnering clinic or hospital.
Pros of Getting a Phlebotomy Education
- Certification is required in a few states, so you may have to take the certification test, regardless. To pass this test you will need to enroll in a program specializing in education for phlebotomists. California is one of the few states that requires “all persons who are not doctors, nurses or clinical lab scientists” to have a current license, to participate in blood withdrawal.
- Because going through the process of phlebotomy training is fairly simple, (compared to other medical fields) more and more people are becoming educated and certified. This means that there is more competition in the phlebotomy job market, highly favoring those who have taken the time to train and become certified.
- There is a large potential for advancement once you receive a phlebotomy education. Many certified phlebotomists decide to advance to careers such as medical assistants, surgical technologists, neuro-diagnostic technologists and other highly advanced occupations.
Cons of Getting a Phlebotomy Education
- Many phlebotomy educational institutions only offer programs that take more than six months to become certified. Most people are unwilling to wait this long to start earning a salary. The costs of these longer-duration programs tend to be higher, as well.
- Numerous phlebotomy education programs charge over $4000 for a CPT1 course, and many do not include course materials and lab supplies in these costs.
- There is a barrier to participating in phlebotomy training programs. One must have a high school diploma or GED in order to apply and take the certification test.
The Phlebotomy Education Verdict
Hence, is education for phlebotomist jobs really worth it? If you intend to become a phlebotomist, then we strongly encourage you to partake in a phlebotomy educational program. The pros simply outweigh the cons. Courses are available in California for becoming a Limited Phlebotomy Technician, Certified Phlebotomy Technician I, and Certified Phlebotomy Technician II. An LPT is only permitted to perform skin puncture and blood collection. A CPT I can perform venipuncture. A CPT II can perform arterial puncture. Choose which phlebotomy course you take depending on the license you wish to pursue.
PhlebotomyU offers a CPT1 Full Course which includes nearly everything you need to get nationally certified and apply for your California phlebotomy license. The competitive price of $2,900 includes a clinical externship as well.
How to Attain Education for Phlebotomist Jobs
Your ideal phlebotomy career is waiting for you. If you want to be successful in the field, a proper phlebotomy education is essentially a prerequisite. After attending PhlebotomyU, you can obtain a CDPH-approved Phlebotomy certificate. PhlebotomyU prides itself in training and preparing students with the necessary skills required to succeed throughout their Phlebotomy career. Valuable assets offered include readily available career services, and a hands-on phlebotomy internship. Still weighing the benefits and drawbacks of pursuing a phlebotomy education? We’d be happy to talk—contact us with any questions.
