Wickenburg Community Hospital (WCH) along with the Registered Phlebotomy Technicians (RPTs) of American Medical Technologists (AMT) will observe National Phlebotomists Recognition Week, February 12th-16th, 2024. Join us in showing your appreciation for these wonderful professionals.
Since 1992, RPTs and others in the healthcare community have honored the vital role and professional excellence that phlebotomists provide in the delivery of healthcare to patients. The 2024 theme, “Phlebotomists, Drawn to Help Others” emphasizes their commitment as a vital member of the healthcare team.
“Phlebotomists have a certificate of completion from an accredited phlebotomy school. Some are medical assistants with a focus in phlebotomy. Phlebotomist do have certifications recognized by a national accrediting organization. These professionals greet our patients with a smile and provide excellent skills in the collection of blood and urine specimens … they are the ‘face’ of the lab.” says Regina M. Vail, laboratory manager at WCH. “I appreciate their tireless efforts every day to create a positive experience for our patients.”
Phlebotomists certified by AMT as RPTs must pass an exam and have the required education and experience to receive this professional certification. A phlebotomist is a multi-skilled professional who combines clinical and administrative responsibilities to draw blood from a patient for clinical or medical testing, transfusions, donations, or research. Phlebotomists collect blood primarily by performing venipunctures or, for collection of minute quantities of blood, finger sticks. Administrative duties include accurately preparing, coding, and organizing blood samples for analysis.
“Phlebotomists provide an invaluable service to both the patient and the healthcare providers in the community. We recognize their dedication to the profession and to the industry,” says Kathy Cilia, MT(AMT), CAE, AMT Executive Director
