Are Phlebotomists in High Demand? Career Outlook & Opportunities
Oct 04, 2023
Phlebotomists are in high demand, and the job outlook for this profession is expected to grow much faster than average over the next decade. This is due to a number of factors, including the aging population, the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, and the need for more blood transfusions.
If you're considering a healthcare career, you might wonder, is phlebotomy good for medical school? This role provides valuable hands-on patient experience, making it an excellent foundation for aspiring medical students.
Phlebotomy is a relatively short-term training program that can lead to a rewarding and in-demand career. Phlebotomists play an essential role in the healthcare system by collecting blood samples from patients for testing. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, blood banks, and doctors' offices.
If you’re exploring how to get phlebotomy experience, this is an excellent time to enter the field, as opportunities for hands-on learning and career growth are plentiful.
In this article, we will discuss the demand for phlebotomists, the job outlook for this profession, and the benefits of a career in phlebotomy. We will also provide tips on how to become a phlebotomist and how to find a job in this field.
Table of Contents
- What Is the career outlook for phlebotomists?
- Factors influencing demand for phlebotomists
- Average phlebotomist salaries
- How to become a phlebotomist
What Is the career outlook for phlebotomists?
The demand for phlebotomists in the healthcare industry is on the rise. Phlebotomists play a crucial role in the medical field by drawing blood from patients for various tests and procedures.
As medical and diagnostic laboratories and healthcare facilities strive to provide efficient and timely patient care, the demand for phlebotomists continues to grow, making it a promising career choice in the healthcare, outpatient care centers and medical and diagnostic laboratories industry.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of phlebotomists is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS estimates a growth rate of around 10% from 2021 to 2031, which is faster than many other healthcare roles.
Factors influencing demand for phlebotomists
If there is a shortage of qualified phlebotomists in an area, healthcare facilities and organizations may struggle to meet the needs of their patients, leading to an increased demand for these professionals which usually comes with an average salary.
Average phlebotomist salaries
Phlebotomists are in high demand, and their salaries reflect that. However, salaries can vary depending on experience, location, and employer.
If you are interested in a career in phlebotomy, it is important to gain as much experience as possible. This can be done by volunteering at a local hospital or clinic, or by taking on an internship. You can also get certified in phlebotomy, which can make you more attractive to employers and can help you earn a higher salary.
|
Experience Level |
Average Hourly Salary Range |
|
Entry-Level |
$16.33 per hour |
|
Early career |
$17.05 per hour |
|
Mid-career |
$18.53 per hour |
|
Experienced |
$19.53 per hour |
How to become a phlebotomist
Becoming a phlebotomist involves a few key steps, including education, training, certification, and gaining experience. Here’s a guide to the process:
1. Earn a High School Diploma or Equivalent
A high school diploma or GED is typically the minimum educational requirement to enter a phlebotomy training program.
Skills: Focus on science courses like biology and chemistry, which provide a foundation for medical knowledge.
2. Complete a Phlebotomy Training Program
These programs usually last from a few months to a year, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time.
Programs cover topics like anatomy, medical terminology, blood collection techniques, safety protocols, and patient interaction.
3. Gain Hands-On Experience
Most phlebotomy programs include a clinical component where students practice blood draws under supervision. This is crucial for gaining confidence and skill in the procedure.
Some programs offer or require internships in medical settings, providing real-world experience.
4. Obtain Certification
While certification is not mandatory in all states, it is highly recommended and sometimes required by employers. Certification can make you a more competitive job candidate.
Certification typically requires passing an exam that tests your knowledge and skills in phlebotomy.
5. Apply for State Licensure (If Required)
Some states, like California and Louisiana, require phlebotomists to be licensed. This usually involves completing an accredited training program and passing a state-specific exam.
Always check the specific requirements for the state where you plan to work.
6. Find Employment
Look for phlebotomist positions in hospitals, clinics, diagnostic laboratories, blood donation centers, and physicians’ offices.
Most new phlebotomists start in entry-level positions, where they can continue to build their skills and experience.
7. Maintain Certification and Continuing Education
Certification generally needs to be renewed every few years, which may require continuing education credits or retaking the certification exam.
Regularly updating your skills and knowledge is essential in the medical field, where best practices and technologies continually evolve.
8. Explore Career Advancement Opportunities
With experience, you might pursue additional certifications or further education to advance to roles like a medical laboratory technician, nurse, or even into healthcare administration.
Some phlebotomists choose to specialize in areas like pediatric phlebotomy or donor phlebotomy, which can open up new career paths.
