Phlebotomy Training in Montana:
Oft referred to as Land of the Shining Mountains, Montana delivers big on breathtaking
mountain ranges, which are a part of the Rocky Mountains. Quite a number of industries
play a significant role in Montana’s economy. These include tourism, agriculture, hard
rock mining, lumber, and of course the healthcare sector.
Montana has a low cost of living, definitely lower than the average seen nationwide.
This makes it a great choice for those who can secure a good-paying steady position.
With the low cost of living comes an average salary for phlebotomists that is lower than
the national average. $20,000 may seem low on the pay scale, but it’s important to point
out that the average annual salary for Montana as a whole is $37,575.
No sales tax, and amazing scenery make Montana a desirable location to relocate to.
The Right Training Makes a Difference:

Phlebotomy, like all positions in the medical field, require that you receive specialized training in order to do your job correctly. More than knowing how to do an accurate needle stick, phlebotomists need to know a fair bit about human anatomy, be aware of various collection methods, understand safety protocols, and of course have the ability to put patients at ease.
There are a number of accredited facilities that offer courses to help you learn all that you need to learn in order to become a phlebotomist. The programs that you research are likely to be very similar in what they offer, but some may be a part of a medical assistant program, which can offer you some good options for career advancement.
The training that you undergo will typically offer quite a number of hours in the classroom, but will also include a clinical externship so that you can put your knowledge to practical use. If you have been working in a medical facility already, you may be able to use your hands-on experience as a qualifier for your certification.
The colleges and state school programs you look into will typically offer classes in the following areas.
- CPR and basic emergency training
- Anatomy and physiology
- Medical terminology
- Venipuncture
- Micro-capillary techniques
Some may offer additional courses as a means of helping you to expand your
knowledgebase, while some may require more clinical hours in order to successfully
graduate from the program.
Requirements for Phlebotomy Certification in Montana:
Montana is one of the states that does not strictly require phlebotomists to obtain
certification in order to work in a medical facility. However, today you would be hard
pressed to find a reputable medical facility that will hire you on if you do not have the
correct certification or at very least have extensive hands-on experience as a
phlebotomist.
In order to pass the certification exam, there are some things that you will need to
accomplish.
1. You should have completed your high school education, or an equivalency test
2. You should be able to speak, read, and communicate effectively in English
3. You need to complete the proper training course at an accredited organization
Montana Certification for Phlebotomy:
Getting your certification for phlebotomy in Montana means taking and passing the
American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) exam. This can be accomplished
through one of several national phlebotomy licensing organizations.
American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP)
American Medical Technologists (AMT)
National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
There are a great many benefits to obtaining your certification as a phlebotomist. Not
least of all is that it boosts your marketability when you enter the job market. Quality
healthcare facilities are going to ask their staff to be qualified, certified, and above
board.
Not only will you be in demand in Montana medical facilities, but your nationally
recognized certification will allow you to secure a position as a phlebotomist in just
about any state in the country. It’s important to keep in mind that if you do plan on
relocating out of state that you verify the requirements for each city and state so that
you can get to work right away.
Maintaining your Phlebotomist License:
Your phlebotomy license will be valid for two years after you obtain it. It’s important that
you do not let your license lapse. This will not only mean that your position at work is at
risk, but it could also lead to a lengthy period of waiting for it to be renewed.
Staying on top of this can help you to stay employed and keep doing the work that you
love.
A Bit of Extra Reading:
Find out where your favorite Montana city stacks up against others around the state.
http://www1.salary.com/MT/Phlebotomist-salary.html
Here is a suggested reading list for preparing for the certification exams.
http://www.ascp.org/PDF/BOC-PDFs/Bibliography/ReadingListPBT.aspx
Montana Schools Offering Training Courses:
Montana State University:
Montana State University offers a comprehensive Phlebotomy Technician Course. This
course provides 30 hours of online coursework, 15 hours of in-class instruction, and 100
hours of clinical lab experience. You will learn practical instruction that will prepare you
to take and pass the Certified Phlebotomy Exam.
View More Details Here:
http://eu.montana.edu/phlebotomy/
Billings Adult Education:
Billings Adult Education offers opportunities for those looking for a low-cost certification
training course. The facility partners with local hospitals so that students can get the
valuable hands-on training needed to understand proper procedures. This is a good
course for those who may need additional instruction with learning English.
Visit Their Site:
http://www.billingscommunityed.org/phlebotomy-certificate/
The Lifelong Learning Center:
The Lifelong Learning Center guides students to learn how to successfully do the tasks
expected of a phlebotomist, including safety, comfort, preparing for emergency
situations, and much more. Students will be required to complete a background check.
More details on their website:
http://thelifelonglearningcenter.com/phlebotomy.html