Choosing to pursue a career in the medical field has lots of options. One of the options is to become a certified phlebotomist, and some people choose to pursue that career. Phlebotomists play an essential role in diagnostic medical testing, blood donations, medical research, and patient samples.
Is phlebotomy a career for you? Let’s look at some of the reasons people choose to get their phlebotomy certification. Salary and wages, job availability, career advancement opportunities, and relatively quick training are some of the reasons people choose to become a phlebotomist. Here are more reasons people get their Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT I) certification in California.
Short Training Programs, Faster Licensing
Getting your CPT I certificate is faster than becoming a medical assistant and much faster than becoming a nurse. If you want an opportunity to get into the medical field and get work experience, getting a phlebotomy certification is a quick path to a career. The Phlebotomy program at Campus Sacramento only takes 16 weeks to complete. After successfully completing the program and getting your CPT I, you can get entry-level jobs as a phlebotomy technician.
High Demand and Job Security
Phlebotomy is a position that is in high demand in a variety of medical facilities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows phlebotomy jobs are expected to grow by 8% from 2023 to 2033.[1]
Job security for certified phlebotomists is high, as they are needed at blood and plasma donation centers, hospitals, doctor’s offices, outpatient care facilities, and medical research facilities. Phlebotomists are essential to the healthcare system as they draw blood for diagnostic testing for patients, donations, and transfusions.
As the healthcare industry continues to grow, the demand for phlebotomy technicians continues to rise, making it a good choice for job security.
Making a Difference Through Your Work
Phlebotomists are an important part of several medical, diagnostic, and donation processes which directly help patients.
Routine blood work can help detect many illnesses and conditions early, such as cancer, anemia, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, HIV, and other infections. Blood samples and diagnostic blood tests allow physicians to treat patients and potentially prevent critical issues.
Blood samples which are used for medical research and diagnostic testing helps advance medical discoveries which can help patients everywhere.
Blood donations are used to help provide red blood cells and platelets to hospitals. Red blood cells have a shelf life of only 42 days, and platelets are only good for five days. After the phlebotomist takes the donation, the blood is separated into red blood cells, platelets, and plasma, and the samples are packed and shipped to medical facilities. The phlebotomy technicians play a critical role in the supply chain of much needed blood components for patients across the country.
Having empathy for patients is also very important. Many people are afraid of needles or may be anxious about the blood drawing procedure. Part of your job as a certified phlebotomist is to explain the procedure and reassure patients throughout the process.
You Can Work at a Wide Variety of Workplaces
A certified phlebotomist can work in many different places. This is a career where there is a lot of demand for your skills, especially in larger cities.
The most common workplaces for phlebotomists are:
· Hospitals
· Medical and diagnostic laboratories
· Ambulatory healthcare services
· Doctor’s offices
· Outpatient care centers
· Long term care facilities
· Community blood drives and mobile donation centers
Phlebotomy technicians may work on weekends and holidays, so be aware. You will most likely be on your feet most of the time during your shift as a phlebotomist.
Advancement Opportunities
Starting your career as a phlebotomist allows you to start getting experience in a real-world medical setting. You can continue to receive further training, such as becoming a medical assistant or other healthcare professional while you work as a phlebotomy technician.
Flexible Hours
Some phlebotomy positions offer flexibility so you can have more life-work balance. For example, some jobs will have you work 10 to 12-hours shifts, but you will have extra days off, making it easier for you to have free time. Other positions may allow you to choose whether to work full-time or part-time. You can pursue a career in healthcare while leaving time for your responsibilities outside of work.
Income and Benefits
Phlebotomists are in demand, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects phlebotomy jobs will increase by 8% between 2023 and 2033 [1]. In 2023, phlebotomists across the entire US earned a median annual wage of $41,810 and a median hourly wage of $20.10. As of May 2023, the BLS reports phlebotomists in California earned an hourly mean wage of $25.18 and a mean annual salary of $52,370. Many medical offices also offer benefits in addition to the salary and wage.
You Can Earn Your CPT I Phlebotomy Certificate in About 16 Weeks
If you’re in the Sacramento area, and you want to become a certified phlebotomist, you can earn your CPT I and start your medical career. Campus Sacramento has a Phlebotomy certification program that will give you the training you need to start your career. If you want more details on start dates, financial aid, pass rates, or anything else, contact our Admissions team or call 888-675-2460.
[1] Note: The data provided above are from a source unaffiliated with Campus, formerly known as MTI College, are for informational purposes only and represent the employment field as a whole. They are not solely specific to Campus graduates and, by providing the above information, Campus makes no representation, direct or implied, or opinion regarding employability.