Community Phlebotomy
Phlebotomists are responsible for drawing patient bloods (venepuncture) whether on a hospital ward, GP surgery, patients home or local clinic. Community Phlebotomy plays a critical role in patient health outcomes, they are literally the lifeblood of the diagnostics sector.
It is a shame that such a key function has become increasingly difficult for patients to access; you take a ticket, wait patiently, but unfortunately the waiting times are increasing and patients are being deterred from attending, which can impact upon a care pathway if diseases are not identified at an early stage.
We are a huge fan of the Phlebotomist and want to encourage commissioners to support wider access to community phlebotomy services, in more locations and at times convenient to the patient, such as evenings and weekends.
We will support commissioners engage with patients and providers to identify and deploy key improvements such as:
- Evening clinics
- Weekend clinics
- Improving labelling
- Availability of parking
- Mobile phlebotomy for rural and ageing communities
- Using partner sites in Community Pharmacy
- Bookable appointments
- Training new phlebotomists
