How to become a phlebotomist

There are no specific entry requirements to become a phlebotomist, but having GCSEs can be beneficial. It would also give you an advantage if you've studied a healthcare or science qualification.

It's crucial that you get work or volunteering experience in the healthcare sector. This will help you get a job, but can also help you decide if it’s the right job for you. You might want to consider volunteering at a blood donation centre or clinic.

To become a qualified phlebotomist, you'd usually apply for a trainee phlebotomist position. You can also apply to be a healthcare assistant or support worker and do your training through your employer.

You might also wish to consider doing an apprenticeship:

• Healthcare Science Assistant – Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship (specialising in phlebotomy)
• Healthcare Support Worker – Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship (then apply for trainee roles in phlebotomy)

You may wish to specialise in a certain area of phlebotomy, depending on your interests and career goals. Types of phlebotomists include:

Clinical phlebotomist

This is the most common type of phlebotomist. You'd typically work in a hospital, clinic or diagnostic lab and interact with lots of different patients.

Paediatric phlebotomist

As a paediatric phlebotomist you'd work with infants, children and young people. They are more likely to be fearful and you'll need extra skills to deal with them.

Geriatric phlebotomist

This type of phlebotomist generally works in nursing homes or long-term care facilities. You'd be dealing with elderly patients who will often need more gentle care, as they might have more fragile veins.

Mobile phlebotomist

Mobile phlebotomists travel to different locations such as homes, workplaces or community centres. You might also work in a mobile blood donation unit. It's a great opportunity if you want to work independently but still interact with people.

How to become a mobile phlebotomist: you'd first have to qualify as a phlebotomist then apply to agencies who hire mobile phlebotomists. This might be a home healthcare agency or a blood donation service.

Donor phlebotomist:

Donor phlebotomists work in blood donation centres. They interact with and collect blood from donors, and ensure donor safety and comfort.

Phlebotomy trainer or instructor

After working as a phlebotomist for a while, you may wish to consider teaching. You could train aspiring phlebotomist in techniques and procedures. This will likely involve practice training sessions. 

Research phlebotomist

If you're interested in research, you might want to consider working in a laboratory or on clinical trials. You'd collect blood samples for research studies, ensuring that you followed strict protocols.

Specialist phlebotomist

Many phlebotomists decide to work in specialised areas such as oncology. As a specialist, you'd work with patients who have specific requirements such as someone with cancer or a long-term illness.