Phlebotomy Schools in Illinois

Phlebotomists benefit from an exceptional job outlook across the U.S., including in the State of Illinois. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports an expected "much faster than average" job growth for phlebotomists through 2029, with an expected increase of 22,800 jobs. This job growth is faster than that expected in some other healthcare fields and other healthcare support occupations.

How Can I Find the Best Phlebotomy Training Program Near Me?

Prospective phlebotomy students in Illinois have several options available to complete a training program. Some students complete an educational or training program in the area where they live, while others choose a program near where they plan to work after completing the phlebotomy program. It is important that students select a phlebotomy program that meets the requirements to work for employers that hire phlebotomists.

The Midwest Technical Institute offers a phlebotomy program that prepares students to sit for the National Center for Competency Testing (NCTT) certification exam. The institute indicates that passing the exam is necessary to become a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT).

The program lasts for five weeks, and consists of 100 clock hours and 25 additional outside clock hours. Students study topics such as phlebotomy practice, quality assessment, medical terminology, blood cultures, and capillary blood specimens. Some other topics covered include point-of-care collections, arterial, intravenous (IV), and special collection procedures.

Many schools and training institutes offer their phlebotomy program at only one location. This program, however, is offered at four Illinois Midwest Technical Institute locations.

Another example of the type of program that students may consider when searching for the best phlebotomy programs in Illinois is the Accelerated Phlebotomy program at the Chicago School of Phlebotomy. This is an intermediate-level program, meaning that students must have prior clinical or educational experience to be accepted into this program. This four-week course complements the student's current experience and training.

What is the Phlebotomy Certification/Licensing Process in Illinois?

Some future phlebotomy students may feel relieved that the State of Illinois does not require licensing to practice as a phlebotomist. The Illinois Department of Public Health points out that phlebotomists must successfully complete a training program for "proper patient care in blood drawing." Phlebotomists must have a minimum of a high school education in addition to completing an acceptable training program.

Employers in Illinois may vary in the requirements for specific training or education for phlebotomists that work at their facility or healthcare agency. Some may require that students voluntarily complete requirements for certification.

Where Can I Find a Job as a Phlebotomist in Illinois?

There are a variety of different types of employers that hire phlebotomists in Illinois. The type of setting may also vary according to the size of the city or town. Some examples of workplace settings where phlebotomists are employed include hospitals, private physician's offices, surgical centers, outpatient care centers, and ambulatory care centers.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics explains that phlebotomists may also travel to different sites. Examples of this include when working at mobile donation centers, when working in private homes, or at long-term care centers.

The specific jobs that are available to Illinois phlebotomists may also depend upon their specific phlebotomy education and their experience working in the field.

What Is the Salary for a Phlebotomist in Illinois? 

The 2020 median pay for a phlebotomist was $36,320 in the U.S. The median Illinois salary for a phlebotomist in May 2021 was $36,567. 

Students likely want to consider the fact that the annual salary can vary from one city to another city in Illinois. Some average annual salaries for phlebotomists in various Illinois cities include:

• Belknap – $32,601
• Albany – $33,185
• Hebron – $34,777
• Venice – $35,058
• Libertyville – $36,052
• Chicago – $37,774

The salary for phlebotomists in Illinois may also vary among the different industries where they typically work in the state.

Phlebotomy Schools By City