A phlebotomist is a certified medical technician trained to extract blood and other samples from patients. These blood samples are required by physicians to make a diagnosis. The phlebotomist usually submits blood samples to a laboratory for analysis. Blood collection agencies for blood donations also require their services.
Anyone aspiring to become a phlebotomist must enroll in a phlebotomy course. Courses are offered in vocational schools or community colleges. Phlebotomy training courses can be finished in half a year. Graduates from a phlebotomy course must take certification exams for a license, a requirement in most states.
The American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT) has prepared examinations for certification. Coverage includes subjects taken up in a phlebotomy course such as Anatomy and Physiology. Phlebotomy methods are also part of the exam. After certification, experience in the field can be gained in hospitals, laboratories, clinics, physician’s offices and blood donation agencies. Most employers require certification and some experience in the field.