Phlebotomy is a great career to explore if you’re looking for financial security and room for growth. As a phlebotomist, you’ll have the opportunity to work in many different settings, from hospitals to doctor’s offices to research labs. Look at our big list of accredited schools in Colorado to explore your options. Read on to learn about what phlebotomists do, what the job outlook is for this career, and how to get started with phlebotomy classes in Colorado.
A phlebotomist is a medical professional trained to collect blood samples from patients. This process, called phlebotomy, is an important part of diagnosing and treating many medical conditions. Phlebotomists must be skilled in both venipuncture (the process of drawing blood from a vein) and capillary puncture (the process of drawing blood from a small capillary).
In addition to collecting blood samples, phlebotomists may also be responsible for labeling and storing the samples, as well as performing some basic tests on the blood. Phlebotomists typically work in hospitals, doctor’s offices, or other healthcare settings.
Phlebotomy classes are offered at a variety of locations, including community colleges, technical schools, and vocational schools. When choosing a school, it’s important to consider the quality of the program, the location, and the cost. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find a program that’s right for you.
Once you’ve completed your training and received your certification, you’ll be well on your way to beginning your new career in phlebotomy. The most common type of certification is through the National Healthcare Association (NHA). This certificate is generally more widely accepted than others and will give you the best chance of getting hired. The following requirements are standard for prospective students.
18 years or older
Immunization Records
Colorado DL or ID
High School Diploma or GED
TB test and shots for other pathogens
Most programs in Colorado have the same requirements to enroll. Some programs may have additional requirements. Prospective students should contact the schools they are interested in to learn more about program-specific requirements prior to enrolling.
What to expect from phlebotomy classes
If you’re interested in becoming a phlebotomist, the first step is to complete a phlebotomy training program. These programs are typically offered at community colleges, technical schools, and vocational schools. Many programs offer internship opportunities to help you get real-world experience. Classes will cover the following:
The history of phlebotomy
Blood types and antigens
Venipuncture techniques
Capillary puncture
Specimen collection
Safety procedures
Sterilization techniques
It typically takes about four to six months to complete a phlebotomy certification program in Colorado. Phlebotomy programs include a clinical component, which allows you to practice your skills in a real-world setting. This component may involve working with patients in a hospital or clinic, or it may involve working with blood donors. Either way, it gives you the opportunity to gain experience and confidence in performing phlebotomy procedures. Once you are done with your training, you can take a national exam. Exams are provided by accrediting agencies such as the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA)
Where can I work as a phlebotomist in Colorado?
Hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices are all common places to find employment. Some phlebotomists also choose to work in the medical laboratory field or on an ambulance crew. You can also work in scientific research facilities.
In a clinical setting, you can expect to spend your days interacting with patients of all ages. Whether you’re drawing blood for a lab test or taking donations, you’ll need good people skills to work with patients. In addition, you should be comfortable working with needles and blood products and have strong attention to detail. It’s also important to be able to work independently as well as in a team setting.
Once you have completed your certification classes, it’s time to start looking for a job. Luckily, there are many places where phlebotomists can work. Hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices are all common places to find employment. Some phlebotomists also choose to work in the scientific laboratory field or on an ambulance crew.
The demand for phlebotomists is expected to continue to grow by 10% (from 202-2030), making it a great time to enter the field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there are currently over 1,500 phlebotomists working in Colorado and more than 130,000 nationwide.
Where Phlebotomists Work
% of Jobs
Hospitals
36%
Laboratories
35%
Other ambulatory healthcare services
14%
Physician offices
8%
Outpatient care centers
1%
Phlebotomist career path
The job outlook for phlebotomists is very positive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for phlebotomists is expected to grow by 10 percent from 2020 to 2030. The aging population and the increasing use of blood tests are both factors that will contribute to this growth.
The sky’s the limit when it comes to finding a job as a phlebotomist. With the right certification and a little bit of luck, you could find yourself working in a place that you love. Popular career paths include:
Laboratory Technician
Research Assistant
Registered Nurse
Licensed Practical Nurse
Clinical laboratory scientist
Doctor
There are lots of areas to specialize such as pediatrics, animal care, transfusions, and others. Once you are on the job, you’ll receive specialized training.
How much does a phlebotomist get paid in Colorado?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics website reports that a phlebotomist in Colorado makes an annual wage of $42,200, and an hourly wage of $20.29. Pay also varies by metro area within Colorado.
Metro Area
Phlebotomists Employed
Avg. Hourly Wage
Avg. Annual Wage
Boulder, CO
90
$ 20.75
$ 43,160
Colorado Springs, CO
230
$ 19.53
$ 40,610
Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO
740
$ 21.31
$ 44,330
Fort Collins, CO
250
$ 19.35
$ 40,250
Grand Junction, CO
60
$ 19.06
$ 39,650
Greeley, CO
40
$ 18.78
$ 39,060
Pueblo, CO
90
$ 19.68
$ 40,930
Useful links
You may want to visit the following links to find more information about becoming a phlebotomist in Colorado.
