Phlebotomy Frequently Asked Questions

What is a phlebotomist?

A phlebotomist withdraws blood for clinical diagnostic purposes and often processes specimens.  A phlebotomist can be employed in a clinical laboratory, a doctor's office, a reference laboratory draw station, department of health, or a veterinary setting.

The employment outlook for this profession is very good at this time.  There is currently a shortage of phlebotomists in the state of California.

A successful phlebotomist has excellent hand skills and techniques, as well as clear communications and exceptional customer services practices.  The phlebotomist is the face of the laboratory to the public.  Additionally, phlebotomy requires good hand-eye coordination and the ability to perform repetitive actions over many hours.  The ability to stand for extended periods of time and walk distances to patient care units is required in most positions.

Is the phlebotomy program approved by the Department of Health Services?

Yes, in August 2007, the program was officially approved.  Ventura College offers the basic and advanced program and a 40-hour externship to students seeking to earn the title of Certified Phlebotomy Technician I.

What does approval mean?

It means that the program meets the new curriculum standards set by the state and the graduates of such a program are eligible to take the exam required to be employed as a Certified Phlebotomy Technician I in the state of California.  The law does require that all persons applying for the exam show proof of high school graduation or equivalency.

Does Ventura College provide job placement?

No, however, many of our graduates are offered positions at the hospitals in which they completed the externship.

What does the program include?

The program includes two theory courses, Basic and Advanced Phlebotomy.  If successful in these two courses, the student is placed in a 40-hour externship.

How often is the full program offered?

Once each fall and spring semesters.  The semesters begin in August and January.

How long is the phlebotomy program?

The courses can be completed in one semester, however, the program is time intensive and courses are tightly scheduled.  There are no opportunities to make up missed time in lecture or lab.  The 40-hour externship is scheduled in Monday through Friday 1-week blocks.  Students are assigned by the instructor with regard to the student learning needs, not personal preference.  No make-ups are offered for time missed in the externship.

Can anyone sign up for the phlebotomy program?

Any student who has proof of High School graduation or a GED may enroll.  The entire phlebotomy program must be taken at Ventura College.

How many students can the Phlebotomy program accommodate?

The program can accommodate only 18 students due to limited clinical placements.

What are the associated costs?

Students are required to purchase a text, syllabus, disposable supplies, white scrubs or nurse's uniform, white uniform shoes, lab coat, identification badge, and provide their own transportation.  Additionally there are fees to register for course.  These costs may run $200 - $300 plus the cost of sitting for the certification exam.

Are there any health requirements?

Yes.  Students must meet the same requirements set by the state for all health care providers.  They must have a physical exam and assure currency in all required immunizations.  The phlebotomy forms packet is available in the Student  Health Center.  The Student Health Center is available to provide immunizations at a reduced rate.  Proof of Hepatitis B immunizations is required the second week of class.  Additionally, JCAHO requires a background check and drug screen.  Results of these checks may eliminate students from the clinical portion of the program.

Is a uniform required?

Yes.  Clean and pressed white scrubs or white nurse's uniform, clean all-white uniform shoes (not cloth), watch with second hand, Ventura College Phlebotomy Program photo identification badge, no long nor artificial fingernails, no visible tattoos nor piercings other than a single stud in each earlobe.  No jewelry other than wedding band.  Long hair must be secured up or back off collar and face.  Externship sites may provide and require additional name badge.

May students transfer into the Ventura College basic phlebotomy program?

No.  Transfer is not possible as the course is intense and fills quickly.  No students are placed in clinical courses without completing the Ventura college basic and advanced phlebotomy courses.

If I'm a working phlebotomist wishing to be a CPT1, how do I know what is required?

See How to obtain a "Certified Phlebotomy Technician" Certificate Guide (PDF) from the California State Department of Health Services.

What questions are frequently asked of the California Department of Health Services-Laboratory Field Services (LFS)?

View the frequently asked questions regarding the California Phlebotomy Regulations (PDF) from the California State Department of Health Services.