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How to Become a Phlebotomist Online?

Phlebotomists play an important role in the world of medicine. They are responsible for drawing blood from patients, administering transfusions and carrying out further research in the field. Any type of medical facility needs the services of a phlebotomist to expertly gather blood samples which are often needed for the diagnosis of many ailments.

Phlebotomist Job Description

Following are some key responsibilities of a phlebotomist.

  • Obtain blood samples from patients.
  • Gather blood from donors for storing in blood banks.
  • Carry out identity verification of the patient and donor so that all collected blood can be properly labeled for processing and testing purposes.
  • Maintain and update patient information database as and when needed.
  • Take care of all instruments required for obtaining and storing blood such as test tubes, vials and needles.
  • Keep all work areas clean and properly sanitized.

Phlebotomist Online Requirements

There are no specific requirements to becoming a phlebotomist online. You just need to be 18 years old and possess at least a high school diploma or GED Certificate. However, the important thing to consider is that many employers today prefer individuals who have specialist academic background and training in the field. So, acquiring some sort of post-secondary education in phlebotomy will enhance your career prospects. In addition to that, it must be kept in mind that you cannot become a phlebotomist online entirely. There will be some practicals and courses that will require your physical presence.

Steps to Become a Phlebotomist Online

  1. Get your high school diploma or equivalent GED certificate

This is the minimum level of education necessary to start a career in phlebotomy. You will need this to enter a phlebotomy training school.

  1. Enroll yourself in an online phlebotomy certificate program

A number of online certificate programs in phlebotomy are available which normally take anywhere between 6 months and 1 year to complete. Before picking a phlebotomy course, make sure that it is recognized by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS).

  1. Get licensed/certified

Obtaining a license or a certification in order to practice phlebotomy is not a mandatory requirement in most states. However, many employers prefer to hire licensed individuals for the role of a phlebotomist. Not only can you enhance your skill set with a certification but you can also have a more successful career path compared to a non-certified phlebotomist.
Following are the major organizations that offer licenses/certifications to phlebotomists. You can also obtain your chosen phlebotomy certification online by going through the established process.

  • National Phlebotomy Association (NPA).
  • National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).
  • National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
  • American Medical Technologists (AMT).
  • American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

How Long Does it Take to Become a Phlebotomist Online?

Depending on the type of online study program you undertake, it will take you a minimum of 6 months and up to 1 year to become a phlebotomist online. Different certificate programs offered by different phlebotomy training schools vary in duration. Choose the one that best suits your needs and career goals. Bear in mind though, that you will be required to complete some coursework on campus as well.

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Phlebotomist Salary

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, phlebotomists had an annual median pay of $34,480. This translates to an hourly wage of $16.58.

Phlebotomist Job Growth and Career Outlook

The coming years will continue to experience high demand for phlebotomists. Between 2016 and 2026, phlebotomy jobs in the country are projected to grow by approximately 25 percent. This is a lot faster than the average growth expected for all other occupations.

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