Where To Take Phlebotomy Classes And Other FAQs
Here you will learn where to take phlebotomy classes. You will also find the answers to some frequently asked questions that students have about becoming a phlebotomist and what training entails.
Where Do I Find Training?
The typical community college offers the class or classes. Nursing schools typically offer one or two classes in phlebotomy but there are often prerequisites to take the class. For example, being accepted into the school’s nursing program may be a requirement. There are a few specialty schools that offer only phlebotomy training. So, you have several options.
Many phlebotomy training classes are sponsored by the American Medical Technologists organization of medical technicians and assistants. Although the AMT headquarters are located in Illinois, the classes sponsored by the organization are located throughout the country. The AMT may be able to help you find a training program in your area.
Does the Training Program Help Me Get Certified?
Certification is required in some, but not all states. The state of California is an example of one that requires certification. Students must graduate from a program approved by California and pass a state exam. North Carolina is an example of a state that does not require certification, although employers may have their own requirements.
Schools with phlebotomy programs typically provide the training necessary for students to take any relevant state certification. You can often learn where to take phlebotomy classes by contacting the state’s department of work-related licensing.
Some schools encourage students to continue their education and take a national exam sponsored by the AMT. Once national certification is received, it is possible to pursue international certification. Some countries are in search of qualified health care professionals. The pay can be excellent for those who have the necessary certifications and are willing to travel.
How Much Does it Cost and How Long Does it Take?
Learning about the costs may help you decide where to take phlebotomy classes. The costs vary depending on the kind of school that is offering the classes and the location of the school. In-state or out-state tuition also applies in the case of community colleges.
Some online programs cost as little as $699 but you are required to attend at least one day of hands on training. The training is offered in a limited area, meaning travel may be necessary.
You can easily find a program for about $2500 or less in most areas of the United States. With in-state tuition, a one year program at a community college would cost about that much, once books and other supplies are included.
Finding out how long the program lasts could help you decide where to take phlebotomy classes. At most community colleges, the training lasts for two semesters. The first semester is theory and terminology related to drawing blood. The second semester is hands on training in a clinic associated with the college.
Some distance programs like the inexpensive one mentioned above last for only three days and offer phlebotomy training online for two of those three days. Other programs last for a full year and allow you to earn an “associates in applied science” degree or a career studies certificate.
What are the Prerequisites?
In order to take phlebotomist training, you will need a high school diploma or a GED. This is not one of the factors that could help you decide where to take phlebotomy classes. From the least expensive phlebotomy-only schools to the most expensive universities, all programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or a GED.
Other pre-requisites vary and could help you decide where to take phlebotomy classes. For example, some community colleges require that students complete CPR training prior to the second semester clinic hands-on phlebotomist training. A student who already has CPR training, an EMT for example, might be able to skip right to the second semester training with the approval of the department head.
Who Benefits from Training
This kind of class is primarily designed for someone who would like to become a certified phlebotomist. But the classes are beneficial in other health care fields. Nurses, physician’s assistants, medical technicians, medical assistants and research assistants are some of the professionals that might benefit. Taking the time now to decide where to take phlebotomy classes could be the first step towards a rewarding healthcare career.
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