Donation
Curious to know more about how the plasma donation process works? Find the answers to our users’ most frequently asked questions about donation.
Why is plasma donation needed?
Human plasma is unique and invaluable. Most of the plasma components used in these therapies cannot be obtained anywhere else; nor can they be replicated in a laboratory. A single plasma donation could save the lives of many babies. It might provide vital treatment for burn and shock victims, cancer patients, organ donor recipients and others with compromised immune systems. Clotting factors derived from donated plasma allow people with bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia) to live more normal lives.
Who can donate and what do I need to bring on my first visit?
How do I find the nearest center?
Please visit our website to find a center nearest you. You can search by state or city!
Are you compensated for donating plasma?
Yes! Each center has a slightly different compensation schedule; check with your local center for their current compensation. Our KEDREWARDS program offers additional compensation in the form of point rewards for donations and referrals via a Wirecard Prepaid Card. In addition, it rewards loyalty and provides an opportunity to engage with our community and give your much-needed feedback on how we can continue to improve and enhance the donor experience.
How long does it take to donate?
On your first visit, plan on spending approximately 2 hours. You will be given a physical exam by our medical staff and asked some questions to help us ensure that donating is safe for you and for the people who will receive the gift of your donation. Subsequent visits will take a little over an hour from check-in through completion of donation.
How often can I donate plasma?
Your body replaces the plasma you donate in a relatively short time (unlike whole blood donation which takes four to six weeks), you may donate as often as two times in a seven-day period (twice per week). You must wait 48 hours between donations.
Is donating safe?
Yes. Plasma donation is performed and monitored in a highly controlled, medical environment by professionally trained staff. All plasma collection equipment is sterile and used only once to eliminate the possibility of transmitting viral infections. Your body replenishes your donated plasma within 24-48 hours.
What happens to the plasma after I donate?
After collection, your plasma is quickly frozen at the collection center and stored there until all your test results are returned indicating that your plasma is safe for further processing. After the plasma has been determined to meet our strict requirements, the plasma is transported to a cold storage facility to await shipment to a Kedrion plant in Melville, New York or in Bolognana, Italy.In a process called fractionation, the plasma is separated into its various components (mostly proteins) that are further refined and processed to create a range of plasma-derived therapies, based on clotting factors, albumin and immunoglobulins.These therapies are distributed worldwide, including in your local community, city and state, for people suffering from serious and rare conditions like hemophilia and immune deficiency disorders.
Who can donate to the Anti-D Program?
If you have an Rh-negative blood type, you are among a select group of people. As a member of this rare blood group, you may be able to help prevent Hemolytic Disease of the newborn or HDN. Your plasma contains a specific antibody that can be used as a treatment for this terrible disease and save babies’ lives. Rh-negative men and women between the ages of 18 and 65 are eligible for this program. If you’re a woman you need to be either post-menopausal or surgically sterile by tubal ligation or hysterectomy to participate and meet all other criteria for donating plasma.
What’s the difference between donating blood and plasma?