Phlebotomy Pathway
Phlebotomy Technicians save lives every day by collecting blood samples that can help to confirm a patient’s perfect bill of health or reveal an underlying health issue. They are responsible for identifying the best collection method for specific patients, drawing blood, accurately labeling vials, and properly transporting the samples to the laboratory for analysis.
Getting started
If you would like to learn more about this opportunity, see the Career Pathways Dates and Locations page for a list of upcoming info sessions and application dates. You can then RSVP for an info session via MyEdFund, our secure member portal. Also see the Career Pathway FAQs for more information.
Please note that we receive a tremendous response to our education and training programs. Availability is not guaranteed and varies based on demand, available spots, and our partnerships with educational providers.
The Importance of Phlebotomy
Blood transfusions save millions of lives each year, and without the precise work of trained phlebotomy technicians, patients’ lives would be put at risk.
- Dispose of contaminated sharps, in accordance with applicable laws, standards, and policies.
- Organize or clean blood-drawing trays, ensuring that all instruments are sterile and all needles, syringes, or related items are of first-time use.
- Draw blood from veins by vacuum tube, syringe, or butterfly venipuncture methods.
- Match laboratory requisition forms to specimen tubes.
- Dispose of blood or other biohazard fluids or tissue, in accordance with applicable laws, standards, or policies.
- Conduct standards tests, such as blood alcohol, blood culture, oral glucose tolerance, glucose screening, blood smears, or peak and trough drug levels tests.
- Collect specimens at specific time intervals for tests, such as those assessing therapeutic drug levels.
- Process blood or other fluid samples for further analysis by other medical professionals.
- Provide sample analysis results to physicians to assist diagnosis.
Learn more about being a Phlebotomist, including employment trends, salary averages, and related skills at O*Net or CareerOneStop.
Pathway in Action
Tyler Medeiros, an ED Tech I at Kaiser Permanente Fresno, used the Education Fund’s Phlebotomy Pathway to expand his skill set and enhance his role in the Emergency Department (ED). By earning his phlebotomy certification, Tyler gained the ability to draw blood, which not only improves patient flow but also speeds up the process by reducing the wait for phlebotomy technicians to arrive. This new skill has also led to a wage increase while maintaining his position in the ED. Tyler appreciates how supportive the Education Fund team has been, particularly their efforts to offer flexibility and keep participants updated throughout the process. Reflecting on his experience, he highly recommends the Education Fund, saying, “Highly suggest the Ed Fund for any healthcare employees that want to achieve their next goal furthering their education.”
Education or training requirements
- High School Diploma/GED
- Be at least 18 years old
- Complete 40 hours of didactic instruction and 40 hours of a clinical externship
- Depending on school: daytime, evening or weekend hours may be available
Accrediting Agencies
- National Health Career Association
- California Department of Public Health
Why accreditation is important: An accredited school has been reviewed by an industry organization to ensure that quality standards are met and maintained, providing some assurance of receiving a quality education. Some employers, licensing boards, and graduate schools will only accept credentials earned at an accredited school. Attending an accredited school will often increase your opportunities in the long run, as employers usually prefer to hire people who have graduated from accredited programs.
Certifications/licensure
- NHA certification
- California Phlebotomy Licensure
Please note: The above content is for informational purposes and is not intended to replace or provide any employer-specific requirements. Please be sure to check your employers’ job descriptions for specific requirements or consult your local HR department.
Interested?
If you would like to learn more about this opportunity, see the Career Pathways Dates and Locations page for a list of upcoming info sessions and application dates. You can then RSVP for an info session via MyEdFund, our secure member portal. Also see the Career Pathway FAQs for more information. More questions? Contact the team at: pathways@theedfund.org.
Please note that we receive a tremendous response to our education and training programs. Availability is not guaranteed and varies based on demand, available spots, and our partnerships with educational providers.