[para]

I am looking into going back to school. I am very interested in the medical field. I would like to be able to work asap,so I am looking into taking a short course. I am interested in both of these certificate programs Phlebotomy/EKG Technician and Pharmacy Technician. I was wondering what all of you think would be the better choice. Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated. They are both three month courses. I would either go to STCC in Springfield Ma or Asnuntuck collage in Enfield Ct. Thanks in advance!

[EricEnfermero]

In my area, pharmacy technician would probably pay a little better and you would learn about some meds, but you may get a little more direct patient care with the EKG/phlebotomy technician jobs. Just depends on what you're wanting out of the job.

[para]

Thanks Eric! You have giving me something to think about. I am not sure yet what I would prefer. I would enjoy working with people as well as helping them hands on, But I am also interested in working behind the counter and leaning more about meds.I might have to take both courses then decided. I am going to health career open house at a nearby collage Thurs, so maybe it will also help me decided.

[Sweetooth EMT-P, RN]

Hey there... you can do on the job training at some hospitals for those jobs... so look there first before you shell out lots of money for nothing.

Swtooth

[para]

Thanks Swtooth! I never even thought of doing that.

[EJM]

I know that at least one of my local hospitals will train you as a phlebotomist with no prior experience. Plus your foot is in the door for other positions. I am not sure about the EKG tech or pharmacy.

[para]

Thanks EJM! A friend of mine works as a nurses aid in a nursing home and she got on the job training. I was originally going to take a nurses aid class with the Red Cross, but after hearing more about the line of work I didn't think it was for me. Do you know how I find out if any of my local hospitals that offer on the job training for phlebotomist? When I look online at jobs in my area they say you must me certified and completion a approved phlebotomy training course.Do you know if I would be offered less money because I didn't go to school? Thanks again!

[EJM]

Para,

I believe the best way is to talk to someone from human resources in the hospital you are interested in working at. That is how I got my job as a dental assistant a few years back. I went in and asked if they were training. Also, if you know a nurse or another person who works in the hospital you can have them put a good word in for you. I am not sure if certification will get you extra money, but I could see how it could. Go with whatever interests you the most. Even if it takes longer to get there.

[para]

Thanks again EJM! That is defiantly good advice.