Traveling phlebotomists, also known as mobile phlebotomists, offer a unique blend of medical expertise and flexibility. If you’re considering this career path, you’re likely wondering: How Much Does A Traveling Phlebotomist Make? This guide provides a detailed look at the salary expectations, factors influencing pay, and career outlook for mobile phlebotomists.
What is a Traveling Phlebotomist?
A traveling phlebotomist is a certified phlebotomist who ventures beyond the confines of a traditional medical setting to collect blood samples. They bring their skills directly to patients, whether it’s at their homes, temporary blood drive locations, or other off-site facilities. This role offers autonomy and variety, allowing professionals to manage their schedules and experience different work environments. Similar to travel nurses, mobile phlebotomists can work independently, for a company, or a national organization. The benefits include setting your own hours, influencing your pay rate, and the freedom to travel.
What Does a Traveling Phlebotomist Do?
The core responsibility of a traveling phlebotomist is to expertly collect blood samples from patients. Their duties extend beyond the basic procedure to include:
- Traveling to various locations to collect blood samples.
- Confirming patient identity and ensuring accurate personal information.
- Identifying appropriate venipuncture methods based on the patient’s age, health, and condition.
- Selecting the optimal draw site for puncture.
- Collecting blood using sterilized equipment and adhering to strict safety protocols.
- Labeling samples accurately and preparing them for transport to testing facilities or blood banks.
- Obtaining necessary billing information and patient authorizations.
- Practicing rigorous infection control standards.
- Providing reassurance and clear explanations to patients about the blood draw process.
- Recording pertinent details and securing patient authorizations for insurance purposes.
- Reviewing daily appointments to ensure they have all the required supplies.
- Assisting with blood transfusions.
Traveling phlebotomist preparing equipment
How Much Can You Earn?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average phlebotomist salary is around $41,810 per year, or $20.10 per hour. However, this number can vary significantly based on experience, location, and employer. The BLS projects an 8% growth in employment for phlebotomists over the next ten years, indicating a promising job market and potential for salary increases.
Factors Affecting a Traveling Phlebotomist’s Salary
Several factors can influence how much a traveling phlebotomist earns:
- Experience: As with most professions, more experience typically translates to higher pay.
- Location: States and cities with higher costs of living or greater demand for healthcare services often offer higher salaries.
- Type of Facility: Different healthcare settings offer varying pay scales.
- Shift: Working night shifts or weekends may come with higher pay rates or bonuses.
- Education and Certification: Additional certifications or specialized training can increase earning potential.
- Self-Employment: Starting your own mobile phlebotomy business can lead to significantly higher income potential.
Salary by Place of Work
The BLS provides a breakdown of average salaries for phlebotomists working in different settings:
| Workplace | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Outpatient Care Centers | $46,130 |
| Medical and Diagnostic Laboratories | $45,100 |
| Hospitals; state, local, and private | $39,920 |
| Offices of physicians | $39,800 |
| All other ambulatory healthcare services | $37,750 |
Do Traveling Phlebotomists Make More?
While the BLS doesn’t differentiate between mobile and fixed phlebotomists, sources like Indeed suggest that traveling phlebotomists can earn more, averaging around $21.81 per hour. This higher earning potential can be attributed to the added convenience and flexibility they offer. Combining roles as a mobile and traditional phlebotomist can further augment your income. Working in a traditional phlebotomy role during the week and picking up extra shifts as a mobile phlebotomist on the weekend is one option.
Phlebotomist drawing blood sample
How to Become a Traveling Phlebotomist
Becoming a traveling phlebotomist typically involves these steps:
- Complete a Phlebotomy Training Program: Enroll in a certified phlebotomy training program at a vocational school, technical school, or community college. These programs often take as little as 8 weeks to complete and include classroom instruction and hands-on training.
- Obtain National Certification: While not required in all states (California, Louisiana, Nevada, and Washington are exceptions), national certification can enhance your job prospects. Certifying organizations include the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
- Gain Experience: Before embarking on a mobile phlebotomy career, gain practical experience working as a phlebotomist in a traditional setting. This will hone your skills and build your confidence.
Starting Your Own Mobile Phlebotomy Business
For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, starting a mobile phlebotomy business can significantly boost earning potential and provide greater autonomy. Here are the key steps:
- Obtain Phlebotomy Certification: Ensure you are a certified phlebotomist with sufficient practical experience.
- Set Up Your Business: Follow all legal requirements for starting a business in your state. This includes choosing a business name, obtaining a Tax ID, registering your business, securing appropriate insurance, and opening a business checking account.
- Decide on Hiring Employees: Determine whether you’ll operate solo or hire other phlebotomists. Hiring employees requires additional steps like employee liability insurance and training protocols.
- Purchase Equipment: Acquire all necessary equipment, including a reliable vehicle, blood draw supplies, storage containers, and transportation materials. Essential supplies include tourniquets, needles, tubes, tape, gauze, sterilization supplies, PPE, a cooler, a sharps container, and a computer with patient record software.
- Adhere to Local Requirements: Comply with all safety and biohazard regulations in your area for handling and transporting blood and blood products.
- Market Your Business: Promote your services through referrals, word-of-mouth, social media, and paid advertising channels.
Conclusion
A career as a traveling phlebotomist offers a compelling combination of medical service, flexibility, and earning potential. While the average salary for phlebotomists is around $41,810 per year, traveling phlebotomists can often command higher wages. By understanding the factors that influence pay and taking the necessary steps to advance your skills and knowledge, you can maximize your earning potential in this rewarding field. Whether you choose to work for an established company or launch your own mobile phlebotomy business, the demand for skilled and adaptable phlebotomists is poised to grow, making this an attractive career choice for those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling profession.
