July 11, 2024

Great Bay Community College (GBCC) based in Portsmouth, NH has announced a new, eight-week phlebotomy technician certificate program created in response to workforce needs in the Seacoast area. Phlebotomists draw blood for tests, transfusions, research, or blood donations and work in a wide range of settings including hospitals, laboratories, doctor’s offices and blood donor centers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for phlebotomists is expected to increase by 8 percent over the next decade, a growth rate that exceeds the overall average across the growing field of healthcare.

“In just eight weeks, the course will provide the theoretical, clinical and interpersonal skills that you need to be a phlebotomist. It is a great, affordable entry point into the healthcare field,” said Lynn Szymanski, director of workforce development at GBCC. She points out that phlebotomists have established hours, can work in a variety of settings, and enjoy a good work/life balance. “Even if you are already in a healthcare position, it is a good credential to have for career flexibility,” she said.

The course will be taught by Dr. Tarry Attallah, a physician with a certification in phlebotomy and extensive teaching experience. Dr. Attallah began teaching the Medical Assistant program at GBCC in 2023 and spearheaded the development of the phlebotomy technician program.

The eight-week course will be held on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at the GBCC campus beginning September 24, 2024. Coursework will be roughly split between classroom instruction and clinical practice. Upon successful completion of the program, students will be well prepared to sit for the Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) certification exam through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). While certification is not mandatory in New Hampshire, it expands career opportunities to employers who do require it.

For more information about GBCC’s phlebotomy certificate program, visit the Business & Training Center’s Phlebotomy Training Program.