Why I Chose to Become a Phlebotomist and the Rewards It Brought

Deciding to embark on a path in the medical field can be daunting, but for me, it started with a desire to contribute to the healthcare industry and a pragmatic approach to securing job stability.

Entering the Medical Field and Initial Training

My journey into the medical field was not a straightforward one. Initially, I was pursuing a career as a surgical technologist. However, my experience with some surgeons, especially those with a grand sense of self-importance, was less than ideal. These surgeons would sometimes change the names of the instruments, which could lead to a tense and stressful work environment. There were clear downsides; if an instrument was handed incorrectly, it was often the phlebotomist who was blamed, not the surgeon. Moreover, I discovered that surgical technologists typically earn less than medical assistants (MAs).

Ironically, as I navigated these challenges, I found myself gravitating towards another role within healthcare—phlebotomy. This decision took a little detour. I had obtained a Bachelor of Science degree and was working in a laboratory as a Data Entry clerk. A few years later, when planning to relocate closer to my family, a position as a phlebotomist opened up at the same company. Initially, I was a bit nervous about switching roles, but my trainer was incredibly supportive, and soon I found myself excelling in the position.

Building a Career as a Phlebotomist

Over the past 12 years, I have built a fulfilling career as a phlebotomist. One of the aspects I enjoy most is building rapport with our regular patients. The comfort and trust that develop over time with patients who come in regularly make the job more rewarding. Additionally, there is a sense of achievement in being able to draw even the most difficult patients, demonstrating both skill and calming presence.

Another factor that made me stay in the field is the relatively non-stressful nature of the job. While every job has its moments, the work-life balance for a phlebotomist is quite good. Unlike many other healthcare roles, I don't bring work home with me; I can fully disconnect at the end of the day and enjoy a personal life separate from my professional one.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The journey to becoming a phlebotomist has been a rewarding one. While the job doesn't pay as much as I initially sought, the job satisfaction and the stability it provides make it a worthwhile choice. If you are considering a career in the medical field, phlebotomy might be a path worth exploring. Whether you are drawn by the need to assist in healthcare, the potential for stable employment, or the positive impact you can have on patients, phlebotomy offers a fulfilling career with a clear pathway to success.