Phlebotomy technician learnership
The PathCare Academy offers this exciting South African qualification The Further Education and Training Certificate: Phlebotomy Techniques (NQF level 4). This two year course has been successfully offered by the Academy since its inception in 2006 when we engaged South Africa's first phlebotomy learners.
PathCare, along with representatives from other pathology groups, led the process of developing this qualification with the support of the Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA). The qualification is approved and authorized by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and is run as a learnership under the auspices of the HWSETA.
The learnership consists of a structured learning component (theory) as well as work place experience (practical). The training is outcomes-based according to the unit standards that make up the qualification. Learners are taught anatomy and physiology, medical ethics, laboratory safety (including HIV infection prevention), and how to safely collect blood and non blood specimens for medical pathology and blood transfusion purposes. Registered phlebotomy technicians are equipped, through the knowledge and skills gained, to safely collect blood and other human tissue samples for medical pathology or blood transfusion purposes. These samples aid in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of disease and disease processes in the body.
On successful completion of the two year course and a Board Examination set by the HPCSA, the learner is able to register with the HPCSA as a qualified Phlebotomy Technician and is able to work in pathology laboratories, such as PathCare, or blood transfusion services.
The programme commences every February or March and positions are advertised internally within PathCare and in the local press each year preceding commencement. The entry level criterion required includes Mathematics at NQF level 3/ Grade 11, First Language at NQF level 3/ Grade 11, and Second Language at NQF level 2/ grade 10. Selection includes pre-interview testing and panel interviews. Successful candidates are paid an allowance and are employed on a two-year contract during their studies at the PathCare Academy.
