According to various sources, online training for phlebotomists is becoming increasingly popular, as 25% of students choose this learning setup.
Of course, phlebotomy training also requires practice hours which need to be completed in person.
You can get a phlebotomy certification as a stand-alone or as a part of another medical program.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
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- Choose an Accredited School
- How Long Does the Training Last?
- What are the Costs of an Online Program?
- Can You Join the Entire Program Online?
- What are the Best Online Phlebotomy Training Schools?
- Aspects You Should Know about Online Phlebotomy Training
- Why Should I Join an Online Program?
- Negative Aspects of Online Training for Phlebotomists
Choose an Accredited School
All the schools mentioned have received accreditation.
Accreditation is offered by several entities, such as:
- The United States Department of Education
- The Council for Higher Education Accreditation
- The (NAACLS) National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science
How Long Does the Training Last?
Usually, an online phlebotomy training program can be completed in less than 9 months.
Out of these, one month will be used for preparing.
However, if you are pursuing a degree, you will have to attend a 2-year program.
Certification is only required in these states:
- California
- Louisiana
- Nevada
- Washington
What are the Costs of an Online Program?
An online phlebotomy training program generally costs from $750 to $1500.
But, you can also find programs that cost $4,500.
This depends on how long a program lasts and the coursework.
For example, the Downey Adult Education’s program costs $1,499.
Let’s have a look at the fees one must pay when studying at the Kaiser Permanente School of Allied Health Sciences:
- Application Fee – $65
- Tuition – $3,400
- Laboratory Fees – $660
- NCCT Test Sitting Fee – $25
- Graduation Fee – $225
- Pre Enrollment Screening – $140
- Books – $80
- NCCT Test Fee – $90
- State Certification Fee – $100
- Scrubs (Estimated cost of $50 per set x 3 sets) – $150
- Clinic Shoes – $60
- Cap and Gown (Optional) – $70
The total estimated cost for a phlebotomy training program at this school is $5,065.
Can You Join the Entire Program Online?
As you will need to undergo practice, it will not be possible for the entire program to take place online.
However, theory classes can be attended online.
What do Online Phlebotomy Programs Include?
Typically, an online program offers a postsecondary non-degreed diploma.
The coursework for an online program is the same as the one for a physical program and includes:
- Human Anatomy
- Human Physiology
- Medical Terminology
You will also get to attend lab practice hours and receive an online certification upon completion.
Which Certification Should I Get?
What you should know is that many employers prefer certain certifications over others.
This depends on the agency issuing the document.
Below you can see the best agencies for phlebotomy certification, the diplomas they award, and the fees you must pay:
- American Association of Bioanalysts (ABOR)
- Phlebotomy Technician (PBT) – $90 ($50 application fee + $30 exam fee)
- American Certification Agency for Healthcare Professionals (ACA)
- Phlebotomy Technician (PBT) – $100
- Phlebotomy Instructor – $150
- American Medical Technologists (AMT)
- Phlebotomy Technician (PBT)
- Local Fee – $100
- International Fee – $120
- Phlebotomy Technician (PBT)
- American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
- Phlebotomy Technician (PBT) – $135
- Donor Phlebotomy Technician (DPT) – $135
- Association of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT)
- Phlebotomy Technician (PBT) – $55 + membership fee application – $30
- National Phlebotomy Association (NPA)
- Phlebotomy Technician (PBT) – $130
What are the Best Online Phlebotomy Training Schools?
There are many schools offering online training for phlebotomists, but choosing one can be difficult.
Here are some of the schools you can consider:
- American National University from Virginia
- Purdue Global-Hagerstown Campus from Maryland
- Rasmussen College from Florida
Aspects You Should Know about Online Phlebotomy Training
Online training is slightly different than classroom education.
Online Classroom Environment
Online classes include chatrooms and one-on-one time with your instructors.
As technology advances, the best online schools have the software needed to make training pleasurable.
Of course, each school will have its own way of holding classes.
Lab Training
Lab training makes for less of the total training time, and you will have to attend practice in person.
When to Visit the Campus?
You will not have to take trips to the campus except when attending lab practice hours.
Minimum Tech Requirements
You do not need any special requirements to attend the online classes.
All you need is a working computer that doesn’t lag, as well as being able to use the recommended program for the meetings.
Why Should I Join an Online Program?
There are many benefits to joining a phlebotomist program online.
Some of these include:
- Spend less money – Online classes are less expensive.
- Have more personal time – Spend more time at home.
- Have a flexible schedule – You can choose when you study.
- Choose your education timing – You can apply for certification when you are ready.
- Have more time for friends – You can spend more time with friends and family.
Negative Aspects of Online Training for Phlebotomists
There are almost no negative aspects to choosing an online program unless you don’t know how to use a computer.
However, even so, it will be easy for you to find the needed class.
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