Allied Health Program

Phlebotomy Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is a phlebotomist?

   1. 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.
   2. The employment outlook for this profession is very good at this time. There is currently a shortage of phlebotomists in the state of California.

   3. 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 respective 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.

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

   Yes, as of April 9, 2003 the program was officially approved. Ohlone College offers the basic program to students seeking to earn the title of Certified Phlebotomy Technician I, and the advanced program for practicing phlebotomists, who by law, must sit for the licensing exam to continue working as a phlebotomist.

3. What does approval mean?

   It means that the program meets the new curriculum standards set by the state and that 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.

4. Does Ohlone College provide the certification exam?

   The exam is offered only to Ohlone College Phlebotomy students.

5. Does Ohlone College provide job placement?

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

6. What does the program include?

   The program includes two theory courses, Basic and Advanced plus a skills lab in which students practice drawing blood on each other. If successful in these three courses the student is placed in an externship.

7. How often is the full program offered?

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

8. How long is the program?

   The phlebotomy 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 108-hour externship is scheduled in 2.5-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.

9. Can anyone sign up for the phlebotomy program?

   Any student who has completed a medical terminology course at Ohlone College (AH 110 &111). Since Fall 2005, the entire phlebotomy program including medical terminology must be taken at Ohlone College. Continuing Ohlone College students have first priority during the registration cycle. You may register by going to http://www.ohlone.edu.

10. How many students can the Basic program accommodate?

    The Basic program can accommodate only 18 students due to limited clinical placements. The Advance course is only limited by classroom space. This course is open to practicing phlebotomists who must sit for the licensing exam. (AH-118)

11. What are the associated costs?

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

12. 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 health form is available in the division office. The Student Health Center is available to provide immunizations at a reduced rate. Proof of Hepatitis B is required the second week of class. Additionally, JACHO requires a background check and drug screen. Results of these checks may eliminate students from the clinical portion of the program.

13. May students transfer into the Ohlone 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 Ohlone College basic and advanced phlebotomy courses.

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

15. See How to Obtain a "Certified Phlebotomy Technician" Certificate Guide (PDF) (view with the free Adobe Reader software) from the California State Department of Health Services.

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

    View the Frequently Asked Questions regarding the California Phlebotomy Regulations (PDF) from the California State Department of Health Services.

17. What other schools are approved to offer this program?

    A list of approved California phlebotomy training schools, programs and courses is available in Adobe PDF and Microsoft Excel formats.