Phlebotomy Schools in Washington

For those interested in a career as a phlebotomist, numerous opportunities may exist in Washington State. As a growing state with an aging population, there may be more demand for those who have these skills in a wide range of areas. Washington has numerous medical centers and a wide range of senior centers that are in need of professionals to provide these services.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is strong demand for phlebotomists in the country as a whole. Currently, there are 132,600 people working in the industry across the nation. However, there is an anticipated additional need for 22,800 people between 2019 and 2029. That is a rate of growth of 17^th percent. It is much higher than the average job growth in the U.S.

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

Training a core component of working as a phlebotomist. A phlebotomy training program may take under a year to complete. It provides an opportunity for students to learn the necessary skills to do the job. Phlebotomy classes are comprehensive and offer a wide range of skill based training.

Students can find a phlebotomy training program in various ways. Some labs and medical programs offer this type of training in-house. This is common in some of the largest healthcare systems in Washington. However, a more common option is to take a post-secondary course. This may be done in a community college or in some colleges that have medical assistant programs. This is generally a program that is completed in under two years, often in under 18 months. There are also specialty schools that offer this type of training as well. Any of these programs may provide the necessary skills for working in this position.

What Is the Phlebotomy Certification/Licensing Process in Washington?

The Washington State Department of Health governs phlebotomist licensing and training in the state. A person may need to obtain a certification for medical assistant – phlebotomist in order to work in this position in the state. To obtain this certification, students must complete a phlebotomy training program through an accredited school. This may be a post-secondary school or a college with an accredited program. The accreditation may come from a regional or national accrediting organization. This organization has to be recognized by the Department of Education.

Students may also be able to complete a training program and then have a supervising health care practitioner sign off on their completing of the education. Students will need to submit this information as well as demonstrate their completion of high school or have a GED.

Where Can I Find a Job As a Phlebotomist in Washington?

Finding phlebotomy jobs may seem complex but there are many program options available in the state of Washington. In some areas, there is a significant need for these professionals, which has pushed hiring opportunities higher.

It is possible to find jobs in a wide range of medical centers and hospital systems. In addition to this, urgent care facilities, nursing homes, and various specialized labs need these professionals. Some of the largest employers in the state in need of these well trained professionals include Eastern State Hospital, Central Washington Hospital and Clinics, and Columbia Basin Hospital among many others. With over 103 hospitals in the state, there are many opportunities here.

What Is the Salary for a Phlebotomist in Washington?

As noted, there is a significant amount of demand for properly trained phlebotomists in the state of Washington. The BLS provides insight into Washington's needs. Currently, there are 2,400 people working in this field in the state. The annual mean wage for them is $42,530. That is an hourly rate of over $20.44. There are many people in the state earning significantly higher than this and some earning much lower. This depends on many factors including experience, where a person works, and the current demand for properly trained professionals.

Phlebotomy Schools By City