The Birmingham, Alabama has a variety of exceptional phlebotomy programs that can equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this field. Whether you’re looking for online options or seeking affordable alternatives, Birmingham’s phlebotomy programs are diverse and accommodating. These programs lay the foundation for certification and provide a stepping stone to a fulfilling career in healthcare.
But before diving in, consider these key factors when evaluating your phlebotomy program of choice:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by relevant authorities.
- Curriculum: Review the course content and duration to match your needs.
- Practical Experience: Seek programs with hands-on training opportunities at reputable training locations.
- Affordability: Compare costs and available financial aid or scholarships.
- Certification: Confirm the program’s eligibility for certification.
- Job Placement: Explore programs with job placement support.
- Location: Consider the convenience of the program’s location.
- Reputation: Research program reviews and alumni experiences.
Jefferson State Community College
Jefferson State Community College offers a Phlebotomy Certification course designed to train individuals in the proper collection and processing of blood and other specimens for laboratory testing, emphasizing interaction with patients and healthcare personnel. This program prepares students for the Certified Phlebotomy Technician exam conducted by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). The curriculum encompasses clinical rotations in a hospital setting to provide practical experience in phlebotomy, focusing on collection techniques, specimen processing, workflow practices, and utilizing laboratory information systems.
Course Objectives
The Phlebotomy Certification program at Jefferson State Community College covers a wide range of essential topics. Students will gain knowledge in understanding various hospital departments’ roles, disease prevention for healthcare personnel, legal and safety issues associated with phlebotomy (including infection control and isolation procedures), anatomy and physiology of major body systems, components of peripheral blood, special blood collection procedures and reasons for performing them, quality assurance and quality control, various venipuncture methods (vacutainer, syringe, and butterfly), identification of phlebotomy complications, processing non-blood laboratory specimens, understanding the significance of laboratory tests in the context of diseases, and CPR techniques.
Materials Needed
Students are required to obtain course materials, including a textbook (approximately $150), drug screen ($50), criminal background check ($20), malpractice insurance ($15), CPR certification card ($10), and a student ID badge ($5). Additionally, students should budget for optional expenses such as health immunizations (cost varies based on individual immunization status) and the optional certification test fee (approximately $117).
Admission and Clinical Rotations
Prospective students must meet several requirements, including the possession of health insurance or indigent care coverage. A random drug screening and background check are mandatory for all students. Health immunizations, including TB skin tests, MMR (two doses), Varicella, Hepatitis B, Flu, and Tetanus (recommended every ten years but optional) are also necessary. Clinical rotations, requiring 48 hours of clinical externship, are conducted during “clinic” hours. Clinical sites are assigned by the Clinical Coordinator, and refusal of the assigned clinical site may result in program failure.
Certificate and Certification
Upon successful completion of the program, students receive a Certificate of Completion from Jefferson State Community College and are encouraged to pursue national certification examinations. Students can choose to take the National Healthcareer Association’s Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) Exam, which costs $117 (not included in the registration fee). Passing the exam leads to certification, and continued certification requires annual continuing education credits and fees as prescribed by the organization.
Registration and Course Fee
Registration for the Phlebotomy Certification program can be completed online or in person at the Jefferson or Shelby-Hoover Campuses. Walk-in registration is accepted during regular business hours. The course fee is $999, and courses are offered on an ongoing basis with open enrollment. Scholarship opportunities, including those through Career Pathways, Jeremiah’s Hope, and WIOA, may be available to eligible students seeking financial assistance.
For more information and to access the schedule, visit the Jefferson State Community College Phlebotomy Certification Prep website.
Final Thoughts
The program covers all the essential knowledge, practical skills, and certification opportunities for most phlebotomy certification requirements. Students should explore financial aid options to lower the cost of tuition and inquire about the program’s duration. Jefferson State Community College is also a highly regarded education institute in Alabama, and program completion from this college will look good on a resume.
Jefferson Campus
Shelby-Hoover Campus
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $999 (Additional costs for materials, immunizations, and optional certification exam) |
| Program Duration | Not specified |
| Class Schedules | Ongoing with open enrollment; Various schedules available |
| Prerequisites | Health insurance or indigent care coverage; Random drug screening and background check; Required health immunizations |
| Certification Eligibility | Eligible to take the National Healthcareer Association’s Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) Exam |
| Location | Jefferson Campus: 2601 Carson Road, George Wallace Hall, Office 202, Birmingham, AL 35215 Shelby-Hoover Campus: 4600 Valleydale Road, Health Science Building, Office 432, Birmingham, AL 35242 |
| Phone | 888-453-3378 |
| Website | Jefferson State Community College Phlebotomy Certification Prep |
| Job Placement | No |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Free Classes? | No |
Fortis Institute
Fortis Institute in Birmingham offers a Phlebotomy Technician Training course designed to equip you with the skills needed to work as a phlebotomist in multiple job roles. Throughout the course, the emphasis is placed on patient safety, quality assurance, and adhering to standard precautions. This program is non-accredited and is designed only for non-credit continuing education in the medical field – this is a major factor to consider if you are looking to become certified, as some (but not all) phlebotomy certification agencies require training from an accredited institution.
Upon successful completion of the course, you become eligible to take the “Certified Phlebotomy Technician, CPT” certification exam offered by the International Academy of Phlebotomy Sciences, Inc.
This program combines lectures and hands-on training, ensuring you learn from experienced Phlebotomy Instructors. By the end of this program, you will have the proficiency to:
- Perform procedures like capillary punctures, venipunctures, as well as syringe and butterfly methods of phlebotomy.
- Gain in-depth knowledge about the proper handling and disposal of biohazard waste.
- Understand and follow laboratory safety rules.
- Know the terminology and various body systems relevant to phlebotomy.
- Learn the fundamentals of the legal and ethical aspects associated with phlebotomy.
For additional details regarding the Phlebotomy Training Continuing Education courses, feel free to reach out to the Continuing Education Department at (205) 940-7800.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $No |
| Program Duration | 54 hours |
| Class Schedules | Contact Continuing Education Department at (205) 940-7800 |
| Prerequisites | No specific prerequisites mentioned |
| Certification Eligibility | Eligible to take the “Certified Phlebotomy Technician, CPT” exam |
| Location | 100 London Pkwy Suite 150, Birmingham, AL 35211 |
| Phone | (205) 940-7800 |
| Website | Fortis Institute – Phlebotomy Training |
| Job Placement | No |
| Online Classes | No |
| Free Classes | No |
Phlebotomy Ink
Phlebotomy Ink offers a phlebotomy program consisting of112 clock hours spread over a 6-week duration. 6 classes are offered as well as an externship that takes place in the final weeks of the program. This is a full time phlebotomy program that provides you with thorough education in a relatively short amount of time. Both morning and evening classes are available, catering to your schedule. This residential program provides hands-on experience and a Certification of Completion upon successful completion.
Course Details
PHL 101: Phlebotomy Fundamentals
In this course, you’ll delve into the fundamental aspects of phlebotomy. Topics include the role of a phlebotomist, qualities that make one successful, the scope of practice, and anatomical structures related to cardiovascular functions. You’ll learn about hemostasis, coagulation, medical terminology, infection control, and the distinctions between medical and surgical asepsis. This course is open to those with a high school diploma or GED.
PHL 102: Safety and Compliance
Building on your foundation, this course explores workplace safety regulations, operational standards, and HIPAA compliance. You’ll learn how to apply ethical standards in phlebotomy, adhere to quality control for CLIA, handle sharps according to Bloodborne Pathogen Standards, and follow exposure control plans. CPR training is included, along with guidance on documentation and reporting requirements. Prerequisite: PHL 101
PHL 103: Patient Preparation
Patient preparation is a crucial aspect of phlebotomy. This course focuses on requisition forms for testing, proper patient introduction, obtaining consent, ensuring patients meet testing requirements, and understanding considerations for different specimens. You’ll learn about positioning patients, selecting suitable collection sites, and instructing patients on collecting non-blood specimens. Prerequisites: PHL 101, PHL 102
PHL 104: Routine Blood Collection
Routine blood collection is a core skill in phlebotomy. You’ll discover the necessary supplies, how to prepare the collection site, the correct technique for venipuncture, and the order of draw for evacuated tubes with additives. Patient safety, symptom recognition, and post-procedure care are also covered. Prerequisites: PHL 101, PHL 102, PHL 103
PHL 105: Special Blood Collections
This course delves into special blood collection techniques, such as peripheral blood smears, blood culture collection, and PKU. You’ll also learn about phlebotomy for blood donations, volume requirements, and non-blood specimen collection. Prerequisites: PHL 101, PHL 102, PHL 103, PHL 104
PHL 106: Processing Specimens
Proper handling and processing of specimens are crucial in phlebotomy. This course covers specimen preparation for transportation, chain-of-custody guidelines, communication with non-lab personnel, and the use of technology for data input and retrieval. You’ll also understand critical values for point-of-care testing. Prerequisites: PHL 101, PHL 102, PHL 103, PHL 104, PHL 105
PHL 107: Externship
An essential part of your training, the phlebotomy externship involves hands-on experience and skill development. This real-world experience helps you apply what you’ve learned in a practical setting. Prerequisites: Completion of PHL 101, PHL 102, PHL 103, PHL 104, PHL 105, PHL 106
Cost and Location
The total estimated cost of the Phlebotomy program at Phlebotomy Ink is $1,250. This includes registration fees, tuition, books and supplies, and exam fees. The program is conducted at locations in either Birmingham and Talladega, offering flexibility in choosing a location that suits you.
The Phlebotomy Ink program covers all aspects of phlebotomy, from fundamentals to safety, patient preparation, routine and special blood collections, specimen processing, and hands-on experience through an externship. If you’re looking for a well-structured and practical phlebotomy program, this could be a suitable option for you.
Birmingham Location
Talladega Location
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $1,250 |
| Program Duration | 6 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Morning and Evening classes available |
| Prerequisites | High school Diploma or GED for some courses |
| Certification Eligibility | International Academy of Phlebotomy Sciences, Inc. certification exam |
| Location | Birmingham Location: 1100 East Park Drive Suite 102, Birmingham, AL 35235 Talladega Location: 223 North Street West, Talladega, AL 35160 |
| Phone | 205-582-9075 |
| Website | Phlebotomy Ink |
| Job Placement | No |
| Online Classes | No |
| Free Classes | No |
Northwest Phlebotomy School
Northwest Phlebotomy School in Birmingham offers two to three-day courses that are a blend of theory and hands-on practice. These courses provide a strong foundation in venipuncture techniques, covering anatomy and physiology, phlebotomy methods, equipment handling, and considerations for various patient demographics. Emphasis is placed on safety, ensuring students are well-prepared to prevent needlestick injuries and the transmission of bloodborne pathogens. A one-on-one practical exam concludes the training.
IV Certification Workshops
Northwest Phlebotomy School also offers IV certification workshops for interested students. This four-hour program delves into the techniques and materials essential for IV catheter placement and more. It commences with a review of basic anatomy and physiology and progresses to teaching students how to administer intravenous drugs, antibiotics, and catheter insertion. Prior medical education or the completion of the phlebotomy certification course is a prerequisite for enrollment.
The total cost for these courses is $675, and the duration ranges from two to three days.
Student-Centric Approach
These classes prioritize student success by maintaining small class sizes to facilitate personalized, one-on-one instruction tailored to individual needs and experiences. The courses strike a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skills, with a focus on hands-on training.
Instructor Expertise
Experienced healthcare professionals lead these classes, ready to guide students every step of the way. They create a comfortable and enjoyable learning environment while ensuring the seriousness of the healthcare profession isn’t compromised.
Eligibility
These courses welcome students of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels. They require a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent, adhering to state and national regulations.
Curriculum Approval
The curriculum is approved by the National Registry of Allied Health Professionals (NRAHP), an organization uniting healthcare workers and setting education standards to ensure high levels of knowledge and proficiency for all healthcare providers.
Flexible Approach
These courses prioritize practical skills, aiming to prepare students for the workforce as healthcare professionals. Their small class sizes allow for personalized instruction, with a focus on hands-on training.
Class Format
Classes combine a mix of theoretical and practical learning. The program maximizes hands-on lab practice to familiarize students with equipment and procedures. The three-day structure is thoughtfully designed to cover essential topics, building from basic anatomy and venipuncture to specialized considerations and bloodborne pathogen safety.
Private Group Training
This program also offers private group training for those seeking a more tailored learning experience.
Final Thoughts
At only 2-3 days, Northwest Phlebotomy School offers phlebotomy training in the shortest amount of time of any phlebotomy program in Birmingham. Their combination of theory and hands-on training, along with dedicated instructors, help students enter the field of phlebotomy without the need for traditional, lengthy college programs. Students should consider whether they want to obtain phlebotomy certification after completing the program, and if this program meets those certification requirements – this will be dependent on the type of phlebotomy certification.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $675 |
| Program Duration | 2-3 days |
| Class Schedules | Morning and Evening classes available |
| Prerequisites | High school diploma, GED, or equivalent |
| Certification Eligibility | Not for all phlebotomy certification types |
| Location | 120 19th Street North, Suite 200-1001, Birmingham, AL 35226 |
| Phone | 360-522-3226 |
| Website | Northwest Phlebotomy School – Birmingham |
| Job Placement | No |
| Online Classes | No |
| Free Classes | No |
Phlebotomy Training Specialists
Phlebotomy Training Specialists in Birmingham, Alabama, offers a relatively inexpensive program to equip individuals with the necessary skills to become a Certified Phlebotomist. The course structure is designed to provide students with in-class training, hands-on experience, and a practical examination.
Tuition and Fees
The cost of the program is $880, which includes the class tuition. An additional fee of $115 is required for the National Exam. This brings the total cost for tuition and the exam to $995. To secure a seat in the class, a non-refundable deposit of $150 is required, but it’s essential to note that the deposit is non-refundable after the 72-hour cancellation period. Payment flexibility is available, and students can discuss extension options by contacting Student Services at 701-404-9434.
Class Schedules
Phlebotomy Training Specialists offer various class schedules to accommodate students’ needs. Morning and evening classes are offered, with 12 classes in total, spanning three weeks from Monday to Thursday. Their weekend classes consist of six total classes, which are held on Saturdays for six weeks.
Location
The program is located Southeast of downtown Birmingham, about a 10-minute drive, at 300 Office Park Drive, Suite 302, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. This makes the location ideal for anyone in the southern suburbs.
Prerequisites and Requirements
Prospective students must meet the following requirements to enroll in the program:
- Must be 18 years or older.
- Must be a high school graduate or equivalent, with proof required.
- Previous experience is not necessary.
Payment Policies
Phlebotomy Training Specialists offers a flexible payment plan. Students can register with only the deposit to secure their seats and have until halfway through the class to pay the remaining balance. Payments can be made online through the Student Portal or over the phone with Student Services. Financing options are also available upon request, and students can register up to three months in advance.
Course Content
The program provides in-depth training on phlebotomy skills, including anatomy and physiology, infection control, universal precautions, and patient care. Students gain practical experience by performing venipunctures on real patients under certified instructors’ supervision.
Instructors
Phlebotomy Training Specialists has a team of experienced instructors who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the program. Instructors like Javelin Edwards, La’Teshia Collins, and Sasha Franklin have years of experience in the field and are dedicated to training the phlebotomists of the future.
Final Thoughts
Phlebotomy Training Specialists in Birmingham, Alabama, offers a well-structured program for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a Certified Phlebotomist. With flexible payment options, thorough training, and experienced instructors, this program provides a solid foundation for a career in phlebotomy.
| Program Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $880 (Tuition) + $115 (National Exam Fee) |
| Program Duration | 3-6 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Morning Classes – 3 weeks Evening Classes – 3 weeks Weekend Classes – 6 weeks |
| Prerequisites | Must be 18 years or older, High School graduate or equivalent |
| Certification Eligibility | Eligible for National Healthcareer Association test |
| Location | 600 Beacon Pkwy W Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35209 |
| Phone | 701-404-9434 |
| Website | Phlebotomy Training Specialists |
| Job Placement | No |
| Online Classes | No |
| Free Classes | No |
Free Phlebotomy Training? What About Online Classes?
Since Alabama technically doesn’t require a national certification to work as a phlebotomist, there are a wider range of options available than in some states. For free phlebotomy classes, you may have to do some homework. Jefferson State Community College does offer a variety of scholarship options, so that’s one potential path. But there are also online phlebotomy training opportunities you can look into. Let’s explore some options.
Free phlebotomy training. While free phlebotomy training programs might be available through certain organizations or healthcare facilities, they can be limited and highly competitive. It’s worth exploring local hospitals, clinics, or healthcare institutions that might offer sponsored or low-cost training programs. Contacting these organizations directly and inquiring about any available training opportunities or apprenticeships could lead to potential options for free or partially subsidized training.
Online Classes for phlebotomy. Considering online phlebotomy classes is a feasible option, especially for those seeking flexibility. However, it’s crucial to select an accredited program that provides comprehensive education. Look for courses that offer theoretical knowledge alongside practical skills through interactive modules, video demonstrations, and virtual labs. Practical skills are crucial in phlebotomy, so ensure that the chosen online program includes or assists in arranging hands-on training or externships in real healthcare settings.
Certification requirements. Investigate the certification requirements for the jobs you’re looking to obtain. Many employers prefer certified phlebotomists. The National Healthcareer Association (NHA), the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), and the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA) are among the recognized certifying bodies. Ensure the chosen training program aligns with the certification exam requirements.
Phlebotomist Salaries in Birmingham
Nationally, phlebotomists make an average hourly wage of $19.51, which translates to an annual salary of approximately $40,580. Zooming into Alabama, the average hourly wage for phlebotomists is slightly lower at $16.11, resulting in an annual salary of about $33,520.
Now, focusing on Birmingham specifically, phlebotomists in this city earn an average hourly wage of $16.68, leading to an annual salary of about $34,690. So, while Birmingham’s phlebotomy salary is higher than the state average, it remains below the national average.
| # of Phlebotomists | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary | |
| United States | 135,500 | $19.51 | $40,580 |
| Alabama | 2,640 | $16.11 | $33,520 |
| Birmingham | 870 | $16.68 | $34,690 |
Now, let’s dive into why these numbers might differ. Factors such as the cost of living play a significant role. Birmingham might have a slightly higher cost of living compared to other parts of Alabama, which could influence salaries even if they’re higher than the state average. Additionally, market demand and competition within Birmingham’s job market might affect wage rates. More competition might lead to slightly lower salaries.
Overall, while salaries for phlebotomists in Birmingham are above the state average, they’re still a bit below the national average. The differences in these figures highlight the impact of local economic conditions and regional factors on compensation in the healthcare field within the city.