Success Guide for becoming a phlebotomy technician
Step 1: Obtain a High School Diploma, or G.E.D. (equivalent)
To start your career as a phlebotomy technician you first must obtain a high school diploma or GED or take an entrance test.
High school diploma: High school diplomas are earned by completing elementary education (K-8) Then finishing 4 years of high school (Grades 9-12). You must complete these years of education by the age of 21. If you are over 21 you are no longer allowed to be enrolled in a public high school and must take a G.E.D exam to receive a diploma.
How to get a GED: If you are over 21 and wish to obtain a high school diploma (or equivalent) the path you must take is to sit for your General Education Development exam or G.E.D exam. The G.E.D diploma represents competency in general education. Obtaining a high school diploma or G.E.D is necessary if you wish to further your education to gain access to higher-paying jobs. Many trades, vocational, private career and college programs require applicants to have at least high school diploma or G.E.D.
How to apply through an entrance test (HESI A2): If you do not have your High school diploma or a G.E.D there are still options for you. Many educational institutions allow aspiring students to take the “HESI A2” exam or Health Education Systems Incorporated A2 Entrance exam. Many other allied health programs outside of the nursing profession have adapted the HESI A2. The HESI A2 exams test students before, the program they are enrolled in. The test will ensure proficiency in key areas before the start of a program.
Step 2: A Simple Google Search
Simply type into google SEARCH “Phlebotomy technician programs near me” or “phlebotomy technician training programs in NJ” and look for the school with the most reviews and positive feedback. Google will search the internet to find schools with the most legitimate content on the web. These schools will come up on your search results page. These schools are less likely to be scams due to googles algorithm which prevents spam sites and illegitimate material appearing in the first few pages of results. Find the school that is the most cost-effective and the best fit for you.
Step 3: Contact School and Schedule an Appointment
Once you have selected your school call or email them to gather further information about the program. If you are struggling to find a school that is a good match for you can call (973) 642-4160 to schedule an appointment with one of our academic advisors to help find out where your future health care career should start. Also, our academic advisors can help you find out whether you are eligible for financial assistance opportunities.
Step 4: Enroll
After you have found a program that is right for you, you must go through the enrollment process. Once your payment method has been established you can start your classes and clinicals, so you can be on your way to becoming a phlebotomy technician.
Step 5: Graduation & Getting your certification
Upon finishing a program, you will gain a certificate of completion. To finish a program, you first have to take a final exam. After passing your final exam you can then take your national certification exam to become certified as a phlebotomy technician. National exams give you a nationally recognized certification in the phlebotomy field allowing you to practice in the majority of the states. This certification will allow you to practice in many states and give you access to well-paying jobs in rewarding careers
Step 6: Finding a Job
Looking for employment as a phlebotomy technician may be tricky if you want to work in a hospital setting. Phlebotomists working in a hospital setting fall under a different category of employees. These healthcare employees are called Patient Care Technicians and Clinical Medical Assistants. These two professions are trained in phlebotomy as well as EKG, taking vitals and other aspects of healthcare.
