Phlebotomy

Join the world of healthcare in just two semesters with the Phlebotomy program at Frontier Community College.  A phlebotomist is responsible for drawing blood samples for tests, donations, or transfusions.  Phlebotomists are also an essential part of supporting patient health, as blood samples can be used to discover abnormalities, evaluate organ function, and diagnose and treat diseases.

SKILLS FOR THE JOB

The Phlebotomy program provides consistent, hands-on learning over the course of two semesters.  Students will begin the program learning the techniques and procedures to collect blood from patients or donors for diagnostic testing.  Later, they apply the concepts to in-class training.  Students will practice and develop their skills by drawing blood from their peers in class, as well as willing volunteers across campus.  In addition to collecting blood samples, students will also learn how to perform blood sugar tests.

Students learn not only how to draw blood, but also how to read and interpret the collected samples.  Classroom instruction will allow them to understand normal levels for test readings.  Additionally, the program covers ethical and legal responsibilities, effective communication methods, and safe practices.

In the spring or second semester, students will complete clinical hours to gain real-world experience and training.  Clinical hours are completed at local hospital laboratories, and students will work under the supervision of a skilled phlebotomist.  During this time, students will not only apply classroom knowledge and skills, but also provide direct patient care and receive one-on-one mentoring.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

After successfully completing the Phlebotomy program, graduates are eligible to earn national certification recognized by medical institutions.  Phlebotomy Technician certification will be obtained from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification.  Both the application and exam will be completed online, and individuals must pay a fee to take the exam.

Specific requirements must also be met prior to taking the exam.  For example, to take the exam you must have a high school diploma and have completed a training program.  You may learn more and prepare for the exam by visiting the ASCP Board of Certification website here.

Once you earn your certification, you may find employment in hospital laboratories, clinics, blood banks and donor centers, home healthcare agencies, and more.  Graduates can also expect to find job placement with ease.  According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for phlebotomists is projected to grow 23 percent through 2028, much faster than the average for other occupations.

Many individuals use a Phlebotomy job as a springboard into other healthcare positions.  Some earn additional certifications as a professional, and others go back to school to earn an Associate’s Degree or Bachelor’s Degree.  Those interested in Phlebotomy may also want to learn about our Certified Medical Assistant or Medical Laboratory Technician programs.

INTERESTED?

To join the Phlebotomy program, or for more information, please call Frontier Community College at 618-842-3711 or email fccadmissions@iecc.edu.  You can also apply anytime on our website.