If you are looking for a new career, you may wish to become a phlebotomy technician. Not only is rapid job growth in this field expected, but the job opportunities are excellent. Most jobs are found in hospitals, but jobs will open up in other areas also. Phlebotomy technicians who work in the Federal Executive Branch can make a median income of $59,800 while those who work in medical and diagnostic laboratories can expect a median income of $31,320. As you can see, this is a great field to be getting into now.
In order to become a phlebotomy technician, you must have an associate degree or certificate in most cases. Those who wish to become a clinic laboratory technician must possess a bachelor’s degree in either life sciences or medical technology. Some will allow you to obtain employment if you have a combination of education and specialized or on-the-job training. If you are looking for a program to become trained in this area, start your search at local hospitals and universities. Plenty of training opportunities abound.
When you choose to obtain a bachelor’s degree to seek work as a phlebotomy technician, you can expect to take classes in biology, mathematics, statistics and chemistry. Specialized courses will be a part of your studies. Your school or program may require that you also take management, computer applications and business. If you will be performing complex tests, the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act requires that you have a minimum of an associate degree. Look for a program that has been accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences. You may also choose to attend a program that offers accreditation in a particular area such as the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools or the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.
Licensing requirements vary from state to state and will also depend on the specialty you are pursuing. Ask your state department of health or the state board of occupational licensing to see what is required in your state. Many employers will require that you have certification and some will ask for other skills such as the ability to work under pressure. With hard work and additional education, one can easily move up in this field.
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