As more and more people across the United States are finding themselves unemployed due to the current economic situation, they are turning to the ever growing medical field to begin new careers and, hopefully, enjoy some solid job security. One of the most sought after career changes is that of a phlebotomist assistant because it is one field that does not require state certification — except in California — to do. However, you must first go through an extensive training program that typically lasts between 6 months and 1 year that will teach you how to draw blood, give you a medical ethics and law overview and provide you with the experience necessary to get a job in the marketplace.