Phlebotomy is a fast and easy way to gain entry into the healthcare field. Although this profession is one of the fastest ways to gain entry into the healthcare system, it is still a well-respected profession that can lead to greater career opportunities.
Like any other healthcare professional, the role of a phlebotomist plays an important part in the health of all patients.
Practicing skills such as venipuncture, preserving and transporting blood specimens are necessary for all individuals to receive optimal healthcare.
If you live in the state of Mississippi and you are interested in becoming a phlebotomist, there are many programs that are available for potential phlebotomy technicians. As this profession is growing in demand, it is easy to find phlebotomy programs throughout this state. A potential phlebotomy technician can complete a program in a relatively short time.
Many phlebotomy programs last approximately three months to two years. The shortest program is a certificate program that can last from three to four months. The next shortest phlebotomy program offers a diploma in exchange for the successful completion of a one year program. Longer periods of study can lead to an associate degree from a two year college.
Although licensing and certification are not required in this state, it is important for all phlebotomists to become certified with at least one of the national accrediting agencies. Some of these agencies include the American Society for Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT), the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and the American Medical Technologists (AMT). An affiliation with one of these agencies will help a phlebotomist gain and maintain credibility concerning his or her phlebotomy skills. Additionally, it will prove to be beneficial during the hiring process as many employers hire individuals who receive certification as oppose to those who do not.
Schools in Mississippi
In this state, there are many schools that offer training in phlebotomy. Two wonderful schools that offer such a program include:
Hinds Community College is a two year educational institution located in Hinds County, MS. It is actually situated in the city of Raymond. This school offers two phlebotomy programs: A 160 hour course and an 80 hour course. The 80 hour is a fast track program that is divided into two parts. The first 40 hours are dedicated to lecture and lab; the other 40 hours are dedicated to clinical training.
Another college that offers an excellent phlebotomy program is Mississippi Delta Community College. This college provides a certificate at the end of a one semester program. It is located in Moorhead, a city in Sunflower County, MS.
[edu-search]mississippi_phl010101082853[/edu-search]
Working as a Phlebotomist in Mississippi
As a phlebotomist in this state, the average salary is $35,000. Although the yearly salary in some cities is between $25,000 and $28,000, the opportunity to earn more is always present. This simply depends on the level of education, certification and experience. The following list gives a general idea concerning the average salaries in some of the major cities in this state.
| City | Average Salary |
| Biloxi | $28,000 |
| Greenville | $33,000 |
| Gulfport | $27,000 |
| Hattiesburg | $28,000 |
| Meridian | $25,000 |
| Olive Branch | $25,000 |
| Jackson | $36,000 |
| Southhaven | $25,000 |
| Tupelo | $25,000 |
| West Gulfport | $27,000 |
Employment Opportunities for Phlebotomists in Mississippi
Employment opportunities for phlebotomy technicians are vast. This is due to an increase in the life expectancy of many individuals. As such, employment is available in many hospitals, clinics, physician offices, laboratory settings and nursing homes. Employment can also be found in various blood banks within this state.
If working in a blood bank is of interest, a blood donors certification is an additional credential that is required. This certification allows donor phlebotomy technicians to offer specialized skills in blood bank centers. In this state, blood bank centers that may be of interest include Biolife Plasma Services in Jackson, MS, Blood Center Singing River in Ocean Springs, MS and Lifeblood Mid-South Regional located in Southhaven, MS. These are just a few of the many blood donor centers available that may be interested in hiring additional employees.
As a phlebotomy technician, there is always room for career advancement. As a phlebotomist continues his or her education in this field, this opens the door to many opportunities. As such, this leads to the increased knowledge and skills necessary to seek higher positions with an increase in responsibility. Such a position usually comes with an increase in salary and an attractive employee benefit package. Starting the footwork in training today can lead to a wonder of opportunities tomorrow.
