A phlebotomy technician (phlebotomist) is an integral member of the medical laboratory team whose primary function is the collection of blood samples from patients by venipuncture or microtechniques. The phlebotomy technician facilitates the collection and transportation of laboratory specimens, and is often the patients only contact with the medical laboratory. The need to assure quality care and patient safety mandates strict professional behavior and standards of practice for phlebotomists.
Phlebotomy technicians must like challenge and responsibility. They must be accurate, work well under pressure and communicate effectively. They must be able to deal with patients and be able to calm patients. Safety is key and all safety precautions must be taken to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases.
After completion of the phlebotomy certificate courses, students will take the national certification exam through the American Medical Technologists (AMT) for the credential of Registered Phlebotomy Technician (RPT). This exam will be taken at the end of MEA 102 . Students are also eligible to take the national certification through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) for the credential of Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT). For more information regarding the Medical Assisting Phlebotomy Certificate, see the Medical Assisting webpage.
Admission to the Program:
- Must meet the college criteria for admission
- Successful completion (with a “C” or better) of prerequisite courses: HES 113 and HES 129 . Note: BIO 201 and BIO 202 can be substituted for HES 129
- Appropriate assessment test scores or successful completion of PCS 021 , TRE 089 , and TRM 090
- Completion of the TEAS V Test
- Students will need proof of immunizations, background check free of criminal activity, negative drug screen, and current healthcare provider level CPR through the Red Cross or American Heart Association
- Completed application submitted to the medical assisting program director
A completed application must be submitted for admission to the medical assisting programs once prerequisites have been completed. You can obtain the application online, at any MCC campus, from an advisor, or at the medical assisting department.
Requirements for Graduation: Passing all Medical Assisting courses for the certificate with a “C” grade or better. Note: For a course to be eligible for transfer, the student must receive a “C” or better. Acceptance of a transfer course is determined by the receiving institution.
Required Gainful Employment Disclosures per 34 CFR 668.6