It had been a while since I donated plasma. So I figured I would try out the new-er place in town. They offer new donors incentives. While the promotion may change, when I went, it was $100 for the first 5 donations so long as they are within 30 days of the initial donation. Not too shabby, lol.
Having donated at other facilities, I know the first donation is a long process because of the additional screening/training that must take place. The day I went for my first session it took about 4 hours. This was because of the snow storm that had just taken place, so they were understaffed from some that could not make it. Over all, the staff was very attentive and worked as quickly as they could with the staff they had. I went on a Sunday, so I'm sure it was busier for first timers than say on a weekday.
A few things to note for newbies.. tattoos/touch ups must be older than 4 months, and there is no restriction for those that smoke or partake in the ganja/devils lettuce/mary jane, lol. Be sure to take the proper docs (ss card, proof of residency). As well, be sure to eat a good meal before getting there, and also bring a protein bar/snack. Since the initiation takes a bit, you'll want to be sure your levels are not depleated while waiting. I also recommend to bring your own "squishy". You know those stress reliever things, lol. It helps the process of donating and they do not provide them.
For the return donors, did you know that you can fill out that questionnaire on their app before you even get to the facility?? This is fabulous! Once you do, you'll get a QR code that can be scanned once at the facility. It's only good for the day so be sure to make it in or retake the survey when you know for sure you can make it same day. With this, you just walk straight to the vitals test lane!
The donation process itself is pretty straightforward. You wait to be called for a chair. Answer a couple question on your identity, and they do their thing. Iodine, then poke. There is free wifi so you can surf your phone/tablet (one handed, lol), but no television to watch. Most people complete the donation within an hour of being poked. Once done, the staff will remove the tubing, and wrap you up. They also let you know when you are next eligible to donate and how much you received for that donation.
It's all pretty simple. They do get busy, so be sure to allow for extra time during these peak times (weekends, mornings and after work hours).Example: I went during peak time at 4:30 pm, vitals check completed 4:45, poked at 5:15, done and out the door at 6:10pm
I will continue donating here for a while, the staff is nice, the facility is clean and in a convenient location. Plus yeah, the extra cash is nice :) read more