At Biological Specialty Company donation centers your contribution can make a life-changing difference. Blood and plasma donations from individuals with lupus, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and diabetes are crucial for advancing research and treatment development. Your generosity empowers researchers and medical professionals to better understand these conditions and develop effective therapies.
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Lupus affects millions, causing everything from mild discomfort to severe pain. Your blood, plasma, and white blood cell donations support ongoing research to uncover better treatments and potentially a cure. As a donor with lupus, you're not just giving blood – you're giving hope to millions living with this autoimmune disease.
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Rheumatoid arthritis challenges daily life with pain and mobility issues. Your blood and plasma contains antibodies and proteins that can help researchers understand the complexities of RA and develop innovative treatments. By donating, you may directly impact research that seeks to ease pain and improve health for millions.
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Diabetes management can be lifelong and complex. Donating blood, plasma, or white blood cells not only helps improve treatments and care strategies but is imperative to the development of effective diagnostic testing.
Fill out the form or call us to contact a donor recruitment coordinator to conduct a pre-screening phone interview consisting of basic health questions. Be sure to bring a valid government-issued photo ID, proof of Social Security number and proof of a permanent address with you on the day of donation.
If you qualify to donate based on the pre-screen, your visit will include an on-site health screening where your weight, blood pressure and pulse are measured and your veins assessed. We will also obtain a blood sample to see if your cell count falls within normal range.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, we’ll inform you about our varying donation options. If you agree to participate in one of our programs, we will escort you to the donor room or schedule your donation appointment.
Relax and enjoy refreshments while you recover. Donors are compensated in appreciation for their time and efforts based on the collection performed. Please call our nearest donor center to discuss compensation details.
Personal service and the utmost care for our donors are the top priority at BSC. Donors are screened according to AABB guidelines and undergo a complete battery of FDA-required infectious disease state tests. For more than 40 years, specimens collected at BSC donor centers have supported the development of therapeutics and in vitro diagnostic assays.
At BSC, we value your time and your contribution to research. That's why you can get paid to donate. Donors are compensated for their time and effort and may be eligible to receive up to $500 per donation.
Every donation counts. Join us in making a difference in the lives of those affected by lupus, RA, and diabetes. Fill out the form or call 833-464-2873 to speak with a donor coordinator.
1. What are the requirements to become a blood donor?
To donate blood, you must be at least 18 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, and be in good general health. Specific eligibility criteria can also depend on your medical history and recent travel locations.
2. How long does the blood donation process take?
The time spent in the donor center for the donation process will vary depending on the donation program.
For whole blood donations, the entire process—including registration, a brief medical screening, the donation itself, and a rest period with a snack—typically takes about one hour. The actual blood draw usually lasts no longer than 10-15 minutes.
For plasma donations, expect your visit to last between one to one and a half hours. A phlebotomist will cleanse and sterilize an area of your arm from which the blood will be drawn. The blood is then sent through sterile tubing into an apheresis machine, which separates the plasma from the other components. The non-plasma components are returned to you through the same arm. This process takes approximately 45 minutes.
For white blood cell donations, plan for a visit lasting from one to four hours. Similar to plasma donation, an apheresis machine is used to separate the white blood cells from the other blood components. White blood cells are collected, and the remaining components are returned via the other arm. The duration of this process varies depending on the volume collected.
3. Are there any risks or side effects associated with donating blood?
Donating blood is a safe process performed by trained professionals. Some donors might experience minor side effects like dizziness, lightheadedness, or bruising at the needle site, but serious side effects are rare.
4. How often can I donate blood?
You can donate whole blood every 56 days. For plasma donations, you may donate as often as twice a week, with at least one day between donations. For white blood cell donations, you may donate every two weeks, depending on the volume collected.
5. Do I get compensated for donating blood, plasma, or white blood cells?
Compensation for blood donations varies based on the donation program and may vary based on location. Our donation programs offer compensation recognizing the commitment and time involved. Details about the compensation rates are provided at our donation centers or during the pre-donation screening.
6. How will I receive my compensation for donating?
Compensation is provided on a reloadable debit card.
7. What if I decide to donate without receiving compensation?
You are welcome to donate without receiving compensation. Many donors choose to do so as a charitable contribution to help those in need.
