Phlebotomy Training Iowa

Phlebotomy Training in Iowa

Welcome to our step by step guide to becoming a Phlebotomist in the state of Iowa. Here you’ll find the state’s basic requirements for becoming certified, as well as any special requirements that are unique to the state. We also have a school directory where you can search for accredited colleges that offer certification programs in your area.

The occupation of Phlebotomy is heavily in demand. In fact, demand is projected to grow rapidly for the next ten years as the United States copes with an aging population. According to Salary.com, the average salary for a Phlebotomist in Des Moines (Iowa’s largest city) is $29,842. In Ames, IA (a small town of 60,000 people), the average salary is $25,285.

phlebotomy training Iowa — A city street in Iowa.

Does Iowa Recognize National Phlebotomy Certification?

There are six national certification agencies for Phlebotomy (we will include a list of them below). Some states do not recognize these national agencies and instead have their own state-run certification boards.
So What about Iowa?
Iowa does recognize national phlebotomy certification. In fact, the state does not require Phlebotomists to be certified in order to be employed.
However, the most common workplaces for Phlebotomists will definitely prioritize someone who has received certification from one of the following national agencies:

National Center for Competency Testing
American Society for Clinical Pathology – Phlebotomy Technician (PBT, ASCP)
American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians – Phlebotomist.
National Phlebotomy Association – Phlebotomist.

There are many advantages to becoming certified, but most important is that you become a much more valuable candidate.

Basic Requirements for Phlebotomy Training in Iowa:

In order to qualify for application to these schools, expect to submit your High School or GED transcripts as well as pass a background check and drug test.

Ultimately you will be expected to:

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 collections

Some Phlebotomy School Programs in Iowa:

The following institutions offer Phlebotomy Training Programs that meet criterion for eligibility to take the National Certification tests:

Eastern Iowa Community Colleges – 12 week program, didactic and clinical. Upon completion, you will be eligible to take a National Certification Examination. (**class size is limited to 10 students).
St. Luke’s College – Phlebotomy Certificate Program. 112 hours total: 100 venipunctures, 15 skin punctures.
Iowa Western Community College – Phlebotomy Program. 72 hours classroom training, 120 hours clinical
Des Moines Area Community College – Phlebotomy Specialist Certificate. 13 weeks, 5 credit hours.

A Little Background Info on the State of Iowa:

With just over 3 million in population, Iowa’s largest city and capital is in Des Moines and with its agricultural economy diversifying in the latter half of the 20th century, Iowa has become a stronghold of manufacturing, processing, information technology, biotechnology and green energy production. Iowa is still known as the “corn” state and is made up largely of open farming land, bordered by rivers on both its eastern and western boarders. It is also listed by the Insurance Journal in 2009 as one of the safest states in which to live.