How to Donate Plasma in Missoula, Montana

People with blood disorders, such as hemophilia, and other issues such as severe burns and blood loss use donated blood plasma to help them recovery from their injuries or illness. Infusions are given to these patients to help them stop bleeding and to restore their blood volume. Blood plasma donations come from people like you, who are willing to spend a few hours hooked up to a machine while their plasma is removed from their blood. Plasma is 92 percent water and eight percent protein, which contains hundreds of helpful components for patients with blood disorders.

Instructions

• 1

  Figure out if you meet the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) eligibility requirements for becoming a plasma donor. You must be between 18 and 65 years of age and weigh no less than 110 pounds. You must also meet an extensive list of health requirements.

• 2

  Contact a Missoula plasma donation center, such as Bio Life Plasma Center or the American Red Cross, to schedule an appointment to donate.

• 3

  Provide the plasma center with photo identification, proof of your social security number and proof of your permanent address. During your first visit you'll undergo a physical exam and have a consultation with a doctor. Your blood is taken to check for disease.

• 4

  Schedule a date and time to donate your plasma. You'll be hooked to a machine for one to two hours that separates the plasma from your blood.

• 5

  Receive compensation for your donation. Each donation center offers a different amount, usually no more than around $35 per donation.