Phlebotomy Training Arkansas

Phlebotomist Training Requirements for Arkansas:

Arkansas, home to almost 3 million, has its largest city and capital in Little Rock. Known for its miraculous spas and Hot Springs, Arkansas is both a winter destination and an agricultural base for a state with diverse interests and widespread economic investments.

If you are living or want to live in Arkansas and are interested in becoming a phlebotomist, here are a few things you should know:
It’s really pretty straightforward to become a phlebotomist in Arkansas. The best technicians are friendly, flexible, well-organized and can deal with a lot of different people who may have a variety of problems and conditions.
You will deal with healthy people too, but there tend to be less of them.
Safety and cleanliness as well as attention to detail are among the most important traits in this business.
Most employers recommend applicants become trained by a school certified by the Arkansas State Board of Certification (ASCP).
The State of Arkansas does NOT require phlebotomists to be certified although a certificate for Phlebotomy is attractive to employers in Arkansas since most prefer proof of quality and skill. So we highly recommend that you get certified! Once you complete your Phlebotomy training and pass a Phlebotomy certification exam you can apply for an entry level job to laboratories, blood banks, and hospitals.

Many employers require that you become nationally certified by one of the following agencies:

National Center for Competency Testing – 145 test questions must be answered over 2.5 hours. Written evidence of clinical competency is required.
American Medical Technologists. Phlebotomist. Requires work experience, oral or written exam, renewal every three years through CEU and re-examination.
American Society for Clinical Pathology, Phlebotomy Technician (PBT, ASCP). Requires training or work experience, oral or written exam, renewal every ten years, can renew through CEU
American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians, Phlebotomist. Requires practical exam, written exam, annual CEUs to maintain certification
National Phlebotomy Association. Phlebotomist. Requires oral or written exam.

There are many advantages to becoming certified, but most important is that you become a much more valuable candidate. A diploma program is required for future phlebotomists and depending on the program you choose and the types of courses you take, phlebotomy training in Arkansas can take 3 – 6 months or longer. In general, expect to:

Submit your High School or GED transcripts
Pass a background check and drug test
Complete up to 40 hours of didactic (classroom) training
Complete up to 40 hours of practical training
Prove that you are capable of as many as 100 venipunctures and 10 skin punctures

Just keep in mind that you should pick the school that gives you the most practical experience with the time you have. That is to say, the more “sticks” the better!

Even though there are no real requirements for a phlebotomist in the state of Arkansas, you can be hired immediately upon graduating High School or receiving your GED, but virtually all agencies will prioritize someone who has previous training in addition to national or other accredited certification.

Professional phlebotomy certifications are different than postsecondary certificates (entry-level credentials) in that they certify that you have received specialized training through specific accredited organizations.

There are many Phlebotomy Training Programs available in Arkansas and you have an opportunity to choose between long and short programs, some with more practical experience than others, and some that offer externships that may introduce you to more employment opportunities. Make sure your choice is based on the certification and licensure that you will want when you begin your search for employment.

You may also find this website useful: Arkansas Medical Board