Phlebotomists in high demand as population ages

Looking for a healthcare career that’s challenging, rewarding and in demand? Consider a job in phlebotomy. Responsible for collecting blood samples from patients for various tests while ensuring that those samples are taken safely and hygienically, phlebotomists play an essential role in healthcare, helping to ensure that patients receive the care they need. While it may seem like a small part of the healthcare process, phlebotomists’ work is essential to patients’ treatment and long-term care. They work in doctors’ offices, hospitals, diagnostic laboratories and blood donation centers to collect accurate blood samples, which are crucial for diagnostics, transfusions, donations and research. A poorly drawn sample can lead to a misdiagnosis.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, phlebotomists are in high demand, which indicates that the market for the job will grow much faster than average over the next decade due to an aging population and an increasing number of people with chronic diseases.

Phlebotomists must label and handle blood samples properly to prevent contamination. They keep accurate patient records, maintain and sterilize equipment and work closely with laboratory personnel to ensure samples are processed correctly.

While phlebotomy can seem straightforward, anyone who has had blood drawn knows there are potential roadblocks to securing a usable sample. The job requires skill, knowledge and a calm demeanor, especially when dealing with apprehensive patients. “Good hand-eye coordination and strong attention to detail are important traits for someone wanting to enter this field, but communication skills are critical. I think I’ve talked down hundreds of people who have a fear of needles and blood,” says Shirley Henderson, a recently retired phlebotomist living in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. “Communication is a huge part of the job. If you get stressed when other people are stressed—and act accordingly—phlebotomy may not be the field for you. But it’s gratifying if you can remain calm and pass that calmness on to your patient. You take what may be someone’s biggest fear and make it go away, at least temporarily.”

Passing “that calmness” to patients may be why phlebotomists often report high job satisfaction.

The median annual salary of phlebotomists was $37,380 in 2021, depending on the place of employment. The job offers flexible work hours, including full-time or part-time hours, either during the day or evening and often on weekends.

While training requirements can vary by state or region, phlebotomists must complete a phlebotomy training program and—in most cases—pass a certification exam.