Choosing the best option from a pool of phlebotomy schools largely depends on the student's needs. There are programs with broad requirements for certification, some designed for people already in the medical professions, and others for those who only intend to draw blood. All programs that lead to phlebotomy certification will require both course time and hands-on practice independently and supervised, and some programs also require internships.
Choosing the best phlebotomy schools depends on a number of factors including location, duration of the program, and breadth of the courses. Being a phlebotomist, which is a health care professional trained in drawing blood samples, is only partially about skill. Learning how to draw blood is something that can be accomplished at many schools, but the additional knowledge such as a more rounded health care education gained from a program may make the school more appealing. In the end, any program that meets specific needs and offers certification will be the best phlebotomy school for you.
A general rule of thumb for choosing the best program is that the broader your skill set, the more job options. Even so, gaining certification in the practice of venipuncture will improve job opportunities. Any person who is looking for employment in the field of phlebotomy in the United States should seek programs that provide certifications from a widely recognized certifying agency, such as the American Society of Clinical Pathologists, the National Phlebotomy Association, or the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians.
In Canada, there are Canadian Medical Association approved phlebotomy certification courses available at many technical and vocational schools, though the requirements for certification vary by province. In the United Kingdom, there is typically no certification required, but job prospects improve with practice undertaken in phlebotomy schools. Requirements for phlebotomy jobs vary not only by country, but also by regions within countries. A detailed study of the exact requirements of the desired employment location should be undertaken before committing to a program.
Phlebotomy schools are often components of other schools, such as community colleges and vocational schools. These institutions offer courses that meet the requirements to take phlebotomy certification exams and work in the field. In choosing the best option, take into consideration the reputation of the program and the school or institution that houses it.
Attaining a certification from a phlebotomy school usually takes six weeks, although there are intensive programs that will help attain certification faster. While many health care do not require phlebotomy certification, it can be extremely difficult to find a job without certification or training, meaning it is considered worthwhile to invest the time and money into attending phlebotomy school to learn the skills required.
