In L.A., Skilled Phlebotomists See Job Prospects Escalate
Medical centers, blood donor sites and diagnostic laboratories rely heavily on blood work to help identify and treat a disease or illness. That is why the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects to see more than 27,000 additional phlebotomists nationwide to have already secured employment by 2022. This signifies a 27 percent hike in the number of health care professionals that were gainfully employed in 2012.
Most employers require phlebotomists to enter the occupation with a certification from an accredited community college or technical school. Many nationally recognized programs in phlebotomy take about one year to complete, and include comprehensive instruction in medical terminology, physiology, anatomy, commonly used concepts, procedures and protocols.
In Los Angeles, top phlebotomists earn more than $41,000 annually in a vocation that remains absolutely necessary.
"The need for highly skilled phlebotomists in Los Angeles is very high because health care needs have increased," said Elissa Underwood, a certified phlebotomist at Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center. "We are needed to draw blood from patients for clinical or medical testing, transfusions, donations and research."
What is driving the push for new phlebotomists?
"The demand for phlebotomists has progressed since 2012 due to the fact that many phlebotomists are retiring or transitioning to other roles, and becoming licensed vocational nurses and registered nurses."
How will your calling change in the coming years?
"I expect that our role will evolve with technology, and the demand for phlebotomists will increase even more by 2022."
How does one plan for a sound vocation in this field?
"The best way to prepare for a career in phlebotomy is to research the best schools that will guide you in every step of the way, including where you can do externships."
What is your message to aspiring phlebotomists?
"My advice to those pursuing a career as a phlebotomist is to develop great communication skills, customer service skills and listening skills. That's the only way you can make it in this field. You can be the best at collecting blood, but if you don't have compassion for the person you're providing service for, then you won't be effective."
Sharon Raiford Bush is an award-winning journalist who covers topics of social interest in greater Los Angeles. Some news articles she has authored have been archived by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. Sharon also contributes to Examiner.com.
