Phlebotomist as a career?

Question

Anyone out there a phlebotomist? What are some good reasons to become a phlebotmist? Do you like your job? Is there a chance for advancement later?

Answer 1

I'm not a phlebotomist, but I'm always willing to recommend an excellent resource, the Labor Department's Occupational Outlook Handbook. Hands down, the best collection of occupational analysis, particularly with regard to wages, job conditions, and best of all, future prospects for growth is contained in these pages.

This year's Outlook speaks quite rosily of the general field of "clinical laboratory technologists and technicians", which includes the specific discipline of phlebotomy. Specifically, the report cites job opportunities within the field as "excellent".

You'll find information on working conditions, training and other qualifications for employment, advancement opportunities, an employment outlook, and even some data on median salaries commanded by professionals in the field.

If you're looking for a career with better-than-average opportunities and a decent salary, phlebotomy looks like a pretty good bet. See the link below for all the info.

Good luck!

Answer 2

The median expected salary for a typical Phlebotomist in the United States as of January 2007 is $26,426 per year. So, you definitely want to take into consideration the cost of living for your area and whether or not you have a family to support. The pay might be fine for a single person who doesn't live above their means.

I think room for advancement is possible, just depending on the area and environment where you work.

Answer 3

I've been a Phleb for many years now. Working as a one gives you a segue way into the Allied Health Care field.

For example, I have decided to become a nurse because of my love to help people. All thanks to coming in contact with patients while being a Phleb.

If you work long enough, you can become a Charge Person or Team Leader in Phlebotomy, depending of where you work.

I like what I do because everyday is a challenge when it comes to drawing blood.

You can later go to different fields of health care or become a Phlebotomy Instructor by instilling in your students the passion that was taught to you. Pass the baton!

Answer 4

FYI: The pay is lousy and there is little room for advancement. I would take the time and continue your education beyond drawing blood.

Take for instance, a 2 year degree (associates) in nursing will allow you an RN license. Currently, the pay for RN's is around 50K, in addition there are 5-10K sign on bonuses. (This is based in Texas) Also, not only is there room for advancement, but there are many areas of medicine you can work in. i.e. physical therapy, pediatrics, geriatrics, oncology, cardiology, neonatal, plastic surgery, ER, OR... etc..

Do yourself a favor and pursue a degree. 2 years is going to go by anyway, you may as well be in a higher paid position!

Answer 5

I did go to continuing education at my local college, and take phlebotomy. I got my certification, also. The pay is not very good and the work is repetitious. It did however, open up a career in medical assisting for me. I am currently working on my bachelors in nursing. I was basically doing the same thing they do in the clinic I worked at, but not the same pay.
I say go for it, and see where it leads you. You might be surprised...