How to Become a Phlebotomy Tech in New York
Those who want to start a new career in a challenging and rewarding field working with others may want to consider becoming a phlebotomy technician.
An individual in this role is responsible for drawing blood samples from patients and preparing them for testing.
If you live in the state of New York and want to become a Phlebotomy Tech, keep reading to learn how.
Education and Training
To qualify for a phlebotomy job in the state of New York, candidates must have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
Degree or Certification
However, many positions will require post-secondary education. Interested individuals can attend a phlebotomy technician training program in person or online to receive a certification.
Specific Coursework
Some topics you may expect to learn about during your training are:
- Principles of proper phlebotomy technique
- Specimen processes
- Order of draw
- Locating veins
- Patient assessment
- Record keeping and documentation
Internships and Hands-On Training
In addition to classroom training, hopeful phlebotomists will need to complete an internship. This requires that a person does a minimum of thirty blood draws. In many cases, it’s up to the student to find places such as local blood donation centers, plasma centers, and labs to complete the required blood draws.
Other Skills Needed
Phlebotomy techs will need a number of traits and skills to be successful in the role. These individuals should have a caring and compassionate attitude since some patients will be nervous around needles and having their blood drawn.
Communication is also important because phlebotomy techs will need to explain different parts of the procedure to their patients.
Understanding the Law
Technicians must also be knowledgeable and understand any and all HIPAA laws and best current medical practices.
Earning a Certification
In most cases, earning a certification from an accredited institution is the best way to find employment. Once graduated from a training program, a person is eligible to take a phlebotomy certification exam through organizations such as NAPTP, NHA, and AMT.
The exam can cost as much as $129, but some training centers factor the cost of the exam into the student’s tuition.
Attending a Phlebotomy Technician Program
Students can attend a phlebotomy technician program in-person or online. In-person programs can give students a more hands-on approach with their instructors, while a virtual learning program can work better for those with busy schedules.
Learn at Your Own Pace
Some programs allow students to learn at their own pace, making it more convenient for those who want to finish early. Meanwhile, students juggling their work-life balance may be able to study and complete assignments at their convenience.
How Much Does it Cost?
Whether you attend in person or complete your coursework virtually, many programs generally range in cost between $700 and $1,400, plus the cost of books and learning materials.
How Long Does It Take?
The time it takes to complete a Phlebotomy Technician program can vary. These programs may be done online or in person and can be completed in as little as six months. Students will learn about topics such as proper patient care, anatomy, proper equipment use, and communication styles.
New York Phlebotomy Technician Requirements
Unlike other healthcare professions, the state of New York does not require a license to become a professional phlebotomy tech. Those interested in this position will most likely need to obtain a certification from a technical college or vocational school.
What Employers Prefer
While some positions may offer on-the-job training as long as you have a high school diploma or GED, most employers prefer candidates that have finished their phlebotomy tech training and certification.
Phlebotomy Tech Salaries in NY
The average phlebotomy technician salary in New York can differ depending on a variety of factors. Region, years of experience, and the type of workplace may affect a phlebotomy tech’s annual income. A few salaries you may be able to earn if you gain employment in the state of New York are:
- Brooklyn $44,600
- Bronx $44,600
- Albany $38.520
- Buffalo $37,059
- Syracuse $37,751
Job Description
What Do They Do?
A phlebotomy technician is responsible for completing a range of duties throughout the workday. Some tasks that a phlebotomy tech will need to complete on a daily basis can include:
- Drawing blood samples from patients
- Preparing blood samples for testing
- Talking readings for blood pressure, pulse, and respiration
- Explaining the different procedures to patients
- Comforting nervous patients
- Applying bandages where the blood is drawn
- Sending blood, fecal, or urine samples to a lab
- Properly sterilizing workspace and equipment
- Updating medical records for patients
Where do Phlebotomy Techs Work?
Phlebotomy techs can work in a variety of different locations depending on where they find employment. Possible locations may include hospitals, medical and diagnostic laboratories, physician’s offices, outpatient care centers, and any other ambulatory healthcare services.
Average Work Hours
Most individuals in this role work full-time. Depending on where a phlebotomy tech works, they may need to work nights, weekends, and holidays.
Career Outlook
Like many roles in the healthcare sector, phlebotomy technician jobs are expected to be on the rise in the next decade. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for phlebotomy techs should grow by about ten percent from 2021-2031. This will mean approximately 21,000 jobs will open up each year for qualified individuals.
Since blood analysis will remain a critical part of patient care, the need for trained phlebotomy techs should continue to be high. Other factors that will likely increase the amount of phlebotomy technician jobs in New York will be workers leaving the workforce due to retirement or changing professions.