What is the job outlook for Lab Assistants, EKG Technicians or Phlebotomists?

Medical lab assistants work in hospitals, medical laboratories and other occupational settings to perform many duties that are vital to the successful operation of a medical facility. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects an 18% increase in jobs for clinical lab technologists and technicians between 2012-2022. Clinical laboratory scientists will show even stronger job growth at 22%. Job prospects should be best for people who have earned their undergraduate degree in this field. Those who hold additional certifications may also find better job opportunities when applying for positions. Internet discussion boards report the most common salaries range from $17/hr to $50/hr with experienced professionals earning less than $30k per year. Other benefits may include matching 401(k) plans, health insurance, tuition reimbursement and paid time off.To read more click here.

Average salaries for medical lab assistants were $26,250 in May 2015. Job growth is expected to be much faster than average (14% between 2014-2024) as many additional health care workers will be needed to keep up with the increase in patients. Medical laboratory technicians generally perform tests on samples of bodily fluids and tissues to assist physicians with diagnosing diseases or determining treatments. These professionals work under the direction of medical technologists or laboratory managers. They are trained on automated lab equipment and instruments, but also perform more complex testing procedures manually. According to O*Net Online, the median salary was $32,430 in 2015.

In May of 2015 EKG technicians averaged $36,000 annually and job growth was expected to be faster than average (14% by 2022) because more technicians will be needed to keep up with the increased number of diagnostic tests being preformed FTE. According to O*NET Online employment opportunities should be best for people who hold additional certifications from the Society for Cardiovascular Patient Care or the American Health Technician Association.

Phlebotomists work in hospitals, blood donation centers and clinics to perform many duties that are involved with drawing blood from patients for lab testing and transfusions. The BLS projects a 22% increase in jobs for phlebotomists between 2014-2024 due to additional demand for medical tests and care. In 2015, they averaged $32,700 annually. However opportunities should be best for those who hold certification from one of several national boards such as the ASCP Board of Certification (ASCP) or the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

any phlebotomists obtain one of these certifications after completing an accredited phlebotomy program.

What type of lab assistant school is right for me?

The lab assistant school you choose should provide quality lab assistant training that will give you the necessary skills to be successful in your career. It is important that lab assistant school you choose is accredited by the CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs) lab assistant school. Select lab assistant school should provide lab assistant training in the following lab assistant subjects lab assistant: lab safety, lab math, microbiology, lab procedures, lab management, lab orientation and computer applications.

Upon completion of the program, students are CPR certified and are prepared to obtain the California Phlebotomy Technician (CPT1) certification from the State of California.