Phlebotomy FAQ

Phlebotomy is the process of drawing blood from a vein in a clinical setting, typically performed to diagnose medical conditions or donate blood. Phlebotomists are the individuals trained to perform blood draws.

Most individuals become phlebotomists by earning a certificate from a postsecondary phlebotomy training program. Phlebotomy certificate programs are offered at trade schools and community colleges and generally require less than a year of training to complete. 

Delta Technical College’s Phlebotomy Course is just five weeks of training. After completing the course, you’ll be prepared to take the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) certification exam necessary to become a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT).

Phlebotomists often enter the profession with postsecondary education, such as the five-week Phlebotomy Course at Delta Technical College. Most education programs prepare students to take the certification exam necessary to become a Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT).

Phlebotomy program costs depend on the educational institution. Learn more about Delta Technical College’s Phlebotomy Course.

Phlebotomy programs generally take less than a year to complete, with some taking as little as five weeks to complete. 

Phlebotomists perform blood draws for a range of purposes, including medical tests, research or donations. In addition to the technical process of drawing blood, phlebotomists also try to comfort patients who are nervous about blood draws. 

Duties also include verifying patients’ identity, labeling sterile containers, entering information into databases and assembling syringes and medical instruments.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for phlebotomists was $38,530 in May 2022. 

Most phlebotomists work in health care settings, including hospitals, diagnostic labs, doctor’s offices and other outpatient care centers. Some phlebotomists also travel to offices or community centers to set up mobile blood donation operations.