Do you enjoy going out on the field and drawing blood from patients around the place? Does working at your own time and being your own boss sound fun to you? If your answer is yes to these questions, then a mobile phlebotomy business might be a good choice for you.
Not only would you enjoy it but the patients you go to would too, because for them it means that they won’t have to go to a hospital or clinic and get their blood drawn. For them the waiting and stress are eliminated. You are coming right to their homes.
Also, in addition to having flexible hours and possibly being your own boss, you may get to make more money too depending on a few factors. So, if you are interested in starting your own mobile phlebotomy business, here’s a step by step guide to help you get started.
Starting Your Own Mobile Phlebotomy Business
1. Obtain Proper Training and Certification
One of the first things you need to do to be a mobile phlebotomist is obtaining the necessary qualifications. This includes:
Getting phlebotomy certification: You need to obtain certification from a recognized organization, such as the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA), the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) etc. Getting certified ensures you meet industry standards and are qualified to perform blood draws safely and effectively.
Also, staying on top of new developments and innovations to practice current methods.
2. Develop a Business Plan
You’ll need to follow all the proper steps for starting a business in your country or state, including picking a name, setting up a Tax ID, registering your business, purchasing appropriate business insurance, opening up a business checking account, and filing any necessary paperwork, such as if you become an LLC.
You’ll also want to work with a business attorney to ensure you are setting up your business correctly since you will be dealing directly with bodily fluids and real-life patients.
Also, a well-structured business plan is essential for guiding your business and securing financing. Here are some more things your plan should include:
- Business Goals and Objectives: You need to define your mission, vision, and what you aim to achieve with your mobile phlebotomy service.
- Market Analysis: Do some research for your target market, including demographics, needs, and potential competitors.
- Services Offered: Outline the specific services you will provide, such as routine blood draws, specimen collection for labs, etc.
- Pricing Strategy: Determine how you will charge your clients for services you will provide.
- Marketing Plan: Develop some strategies for reaching your target audience through online and offline channels.
3. Register Your Business and Obtain Licenses
According to how it is done in your country or state, do the following:
- Business Name Registration: Choose a unique and professional name for your business and register it.
- Business License: Obtain a business license from your local government to legally operate.
- Tax Identification Number (TIN): Obtain a social security number or otherwise for tax purposes.
- Insurance: Protect your business with insurance coverage that includes general liability, professional liability (malpractice), and business property.
4. Acquire Necessary Equipment
Depending on the scope of your business, you’ll need to purchase your equipment. If you will be traveling, you’ll need a vehicle, blood draw supplies, storage and handling supplies, and transportation supplies.
Here’s an introductory list of other supplies you may need:
1. Tourniquet
2. Needles
3. Tubes
4. Tape
5. Gauze
6. Vacutainers
7. Sterilization/cleaning supplies
8. Med bag
9. Bandages
10. Computer and appropriate patient record software
11. Portable Phlebotomy Chair
12. Sharps Container
13. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (gloves, masks, lab coats)
14. Portable Centrifuge
15. Cooler with Ice Packs
16. Labeling and Documentation Supplies
5. Establish Partnerships with Laboratories
You may have worked for a previous laboratory before and had done mobile phlebotomy for them. After starting your business you could become the person who does mobile phlebotomy for them full time.
Try to create other partnerships with other local laboratories so you can be the one or one of the persons that draws blood for them and collect other specimen. Doing so will help your business and get you established. Also, make sure you are familiar with the laboratory’s requirements for specimen handling and transportation.
6. Market Your Business
Once you open your business you will need to attract customers and grow it. You can do that in several ways,
- Website and Social Media: Create a professional website and maintain active social media profiles to reach potential clients.
- Local Advertising: Use flyers, business cards, and advertisements in local newspapers and magazines.
- Networking: Attend healthcare industry events, join professional organizations, and network with local healthcare providers.
- Referrals: Encourage satisfied clients to refer your services to others and offer incentives for referrals.
- Word-of-mouth advertising.
7. Adhere to Any Requirements in Your Area
Stay up-to-date with local, state, and federal regulations related to healthcare and phlebotomy. Adhere to all proper safety and biohazard requirements in your area for handling and transporting blood and blood products.
8. Hire and Train Staff
As your business grows, you may need to hire additional phlebotomists or administrative staff. Ensure that all employees are properly trained and certified, and conduct regular training sessions to keep up with industry standards and best practices.
9. Provide Excellent Customer Service
Focus on delivering exceptional customer service to build a strong reputation and encourage repeat business. Be punctual, professional, and compassionate with your patients, ensuring their comfort and confidence in your services. Provide results in a timely manner.
Conclusion
Starting a mobile phlebotomy business requires a lot of planning, investment in equipment, and a commitment to excellent patient service. By following these steps and others in your local area, you can establish a successful business that meets the growing demand for convenient, at-home healthcare services. With dedication and the right approach, your mobile phlebotomy business can thrive and make a significant difference in the lives of your patients.
Finding a Job at a Mobile Phlebotomy Company
If you are not ready to start your own mobile phlebotomy business and would like to work as a mobile phlebotomist for a mobile phlebotomy service, here are some places you can look to find a job.
- Private laboratories
- Hospital laboratories
- Doctor’s offices
- Urgent care centers
- Another mobile phlebotomy business
Of course, you will have to be a certified phlebotomist in order to apply and if you have experience that will go a long way for you. If you don’t have certification yet, then you will need to get certified first. When you are done, apply directly to the company.
If you don’t have experience you can volunteer or seek out job shadowing, interning, or other experiences while you are in school. When you are ready to apply, that experience will come in handy for you.