BioLife Plasma Services Coralville, IA

BioLife Plasma Services Coralville, IA

Reviews Summary

Most reviews highlight friendly, professional staff who provide excellent care, with many praising the efficiency and comfort during donations. However, recurring complaints cite long wait times, understaffing, and inconsistent scheduling, leading to frustration. A few negative experiences mention unprofessional behavior or poor needle handling, but these are outliers. The majority of donors report positive experiences, especially when the process runs smoothly, emphasizing the staff's kindness and skill. Some suggest management needs to address operational inefficiencies to improve wait times and overall donor satisfaction.

About This Listing

Ages 18-65
You have to make an appointment first, by phone or possibly on their website. First time donors are required to pass examinations.

Who Can Donate?

Likely aged between 18 and 65 (some centers may allow up to 69 or older)
Weigh at least 110 pounds (requirements may vary slightly)
In general good health, as determined by a health screening
No tattoos, piercings, or permanent makeup within the past 4–12 months (timeframes may vary)
Provide a valid government-issued photo ID
Provide proof of a permanent address (requirements may differ)

*Note: Eligibility criteria may vary by center. Check with your local facility for specifics.*

First-Time Donors

First-time donors will typically need to complete a medical history questionnaire and undergo a brief physical exam, which may include vital signs and blood tests. Some individuals may be temporarily or permanently deferred from donating based on health or other factors.

Common Reasons for Deferral:

Temporary Recent tattoo or piercing, recent pregnancy, certain medications (e.g., antibiotics), or recent illness
Permanent Certain chronic health conditions, such as Hepatitis or HIV

*Note: Deferral policies vary by center. Confirm with your local facility.*

What to Bring

Valid photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport, or military ID)
Proof of Social Security Number (e.g., Social Security card or tax document)
Proof of current address (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement, or official mail dated within the last 60 days)

*Note: Documentation requirements may differ by center.*

Preparing for Your Donation

Drink plenty of water or caffeine-free fluids (e.g., 4–6 glasses) 2–3 hours before donating
Eat a balanced, iron-rich meal within a few hours of your visit
Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours prior
Refrain from smoking 2–3 hours before your appointment
Avoid intense exercise for at least an hour before donating
Get adequate sleep the night before
Bring a list of any medications you’re currently taking
Postpone your visit if you’re feeling unwell

*Note: Preparation guidelines may vary by center.*

How to Get Started

Many centers allow walk-ins, but some may require appointments. Check with your local center.

Other Helpful Info

First visits may take around 1.5–2.5 hours due to the screening process
Repeat donations typically take 45–90 minutes
You may donate plasma up to twice per week, with at least 48 hours between donations (frequency may vary)
Some centers may offer a refer-a-friend program with incentives
Compensation, if offered, may be provided via cash, prepaid debit cards, or other methods (varies by center)

*Note: Policies, compensation, and procedures differ by center. Contact your local facility for details.*

Features

Ages 18-65
You have to make an appointment first, by phone or possibly on their website. First time donors are required to pass examinations.

Contact Information

Address

2490 Corridor Way

Coralville, Iowa 52241

Customer Reviews

First first time ever donating anywhere, was very impressed with the staff and how friendly they were. They helped me along the whole process and seemed actually happy that I was there. Felt very safe and secure. Donating wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. I was happy to hear that my donation would actually go to help people in need and the compensation was generous. The facility was very nice, it was a relaxing atmosphere. The main thing for me though was that staff were very approachable and friendly

I just made my fourth donation, and this location has me concerned about their quality of staff. I had to get my finger pricked twice because the lady didn't press hard enough the first time. Then, I got my arm wrapped after the donation and went to use the restroom, and I felt something leaking on my arm, and it was blood leaking all over the place! On my second donation, I suffered a hematoma. The lady put the needle too far in and didn't seem confident while dealing with me at all. It's getting to the

Very helpful and friendly staff. The medical team did an amazing job!! Everyone was very professional and the facility is very clean! I would recommend anyone interested in donating come here! It's a great way to make some extra money and help people in need!

I've donated at both BioLife and Grifols for years and I have to say my most recent experiences with this Coralville location have been really terrible. In July they got new machines and for some reason, either personnel or manufacturer error, a tube broke and a return issue caused me to be deferred for 3 months. I'll add the picture I took in July. I was on a promotion at the time which I missed out on using due to the expiration date. Not only do I miss out on the funds for the three months of donations,

5 stars for phlebotomist Griffin! He is always friendly, efficient, and makes donating a pleasant experience. His dedication to positive customer interactions deserves to be recognized!

Hi! I donate quite frequently and mostly everyone is very nice and works hard. There is one lady, that I get nervous to have her everytime. Her name is Lindsay from what I saw on her name tag. She tends to mess up a lot and have to try again when I'm there. She also has cried on the spot a few times. No hate to her, just wanted you guys to be aware. Thanks!

Great customer service, impressive and sociable staff. It's very intuitive and they help you understand the systems very effectively.

The staff is friendly, efficient, and professional. It's a super busy place but I could tell they are all doing their best to keep the process flowing; and doing a great job of it. Each and every step was thoroughly explained and I was given time for any questions or concerns. I'll definitely be going back.

The first time I was here, I felt comfortable. The staffs were amiable and nice. I decided to donate for I wanted to be the reason for someone else's heartbeat. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to save lives, BioLife! God speed. ??????

In the past, I've had issues with longer donations sticks not right however, there has been a big turnaround. I had a great experience. The donation was fast. The phlebotomist was good at what he was doing. Everybody is always nice and courteous.

First of all for the most part , I usually don't have much to complain about . However latley I have been less then impressed. I will start with the cleanliness of the bathrooms. I feel like this is an area that is not kept up with. I realize the employees are busy, but I value a clean bathroom. The sinks are dirty and paper towels are almost always all over the floor . I almost don't want to use the facilities when I'm there because of the lack of upkeep. Lately I have notice more bickering and/or goss

Pay me 70 then put a 70 dollar hold on my card (no, I wasn't deferred) then say there's nothing you can do. Bullshit.

Takes to long. Plus, Iam getting less and less per two donations per week. Don't plead poverty to me. So, if I get less per week, does that mean the appointment should be quicker each week. We are paid for our time, correct?

I never had an issue at all until a worker named Lindsay gave me what looks and feels like a Hematoma. She poked my left arm (hurt way more than normal) and then called someone over to double check. It was in the wrong spot so a worker tried to readjust it, but it was too messed up. So we tried my other arm. All was well until my donation stopped and apparently something else was wrong. So after all of that I finished my donation. Then Lindsay starts to work on the man right next to me, and also ?messes up?

Waiting over an hour between when I arrive for my appointment and getting my arm stuck is bullshit. Staff will also make you wait half an hour from the time your donation is done to when they will unhook you from the machine and let you go. They will also start people before you that arrived after you, making you wait even longer. The amount of times my vein has been blown and I've gotten a hematoma from improper technique is also unacceptable. Staff are rude and disrespectful as well. I do not anticipate d

In general, donating at the Coralville, IA Biolife is a pleasant experience. I would give more stars except that about half or maybe more of the employees lack in work ethic. There are a handful of fantastic employees that stay on task and engage with purpose. So shout out to you guys! However, there are far too many people standing around chit-chatting or people sluggishly meandering while there are lines of people attempting to donate. As well as people done with the donation process but just sitting, wa

The people are amazing and very friendly and it's very clean and relaxing

Justin is a great phlebotomist and always takes great care to make sure you feel comfortable and well informed. he's very hard working and this place would not be the same without him! huzzah!

On 01-02-25 I was in and out in 45 minutes and the staff was very pleasant I go 2 times a week like clockwork

The staff is curious and very helpful with all the steps and process of the donation.

Very understaffed. My scheduled appointment 6:25 at 7:10. I'm sitting in the bed still unhooked. Also noticed other people that came in after me getting hooked up before me. I know they pay you to donate but for me it's an hour drive each way. If it's an hour before I get hooked up from my schedule appointment, that means it's a 4-Hour donation process for me. $40 just isn't worth it

This was my first time donating, I was prepared for the extra time it takes to get through the initial process. Deb and Rhonda were fantastic, they made the experience so easy by explaining the process making sure I knew exactly what to expect. Although the clinic was busy when I was ready to begin, Geneva efficiently made sure I knew what to expect during the donation process. She has the softest touch when inserting the needle, I honestly didn't even feel it! Once I was processing, An (Awn) took ov

I donated plasma here one time because I am a regular BioLife donor and was visiting from out of town. The staff was friendly, the service was great, and I had a good experience. The layout of the center and a small detail of one of their procedures was different than what I was used to at another center, but they were kind and understanding to help me feel comfortable there. I would definitely go there again.

Ronda who works the front desk is one of the rudest people I have ever met and I will not be coming back because of her specifically. She was very passive aggressive and disrespectful when giving directions, rolled her eyes at me several times and made comments on my physical appearance, she was also more interested in a conversation she was having with a coworker and seemed very annoyed with me for having the audacity to interrupt.

I just went to this location for my first ever donation, and was placed with Chad to have my poke administered. He was absolutely amazing and incredibly helpful and personable. I now look forward to being placed with Chad because of how amazing he is! He definitely deserves top employee, he was great:)

I donate regularly and will continue to do so for weeks to come! This location is great, I have had nothing but amazing experiences with Mikayla! She's great at what she does and makes the whole experience something I've begun to look forward to.

Very friendly workers and very organized the process was smooth and easy.

Honesty, a few years ago this place was boring, slow, and did not have the best customer service. As of now thou, I enjoy coming knowing that I will have a great experience. I would love to shout out everyone that has done a great job! From the nurses to the front desk pokers to the person in the "cage" and finally to the ones doing the needle poking. You guys are awesome and you guys have built an amazing team over the last few years. I feel bad if I don't have your name in here but I'm going off of the la

Had issues with my donation due to small veins that also like to roll. Warned staff that I can be a hard stick and ended up with both arms wrapped in guze. Although everything did not go well everyone was very apologetic, and cared about how I was feeling. I had to sit and wait a bit to make sure I was feeling OK and that there were no further issues. The staff is friendly and they do their best to make your donation go as smooth as possible, unless you're difficult like myself. ??

Today Was My 1st Day Back In 4 Years. Had Some Great Encounters With Staff Members I'm Giving A Shout Out To( Mary, Shayla, Jamica, And My Awesome Nurse Debbie!!) Thanks Ladies For A Great Experience!!

I really do love the workers here. They are all great! I give it 4 stars instead of 5 because sometimes they are just too busy. Too many appointments and not enough staff sometimes. Tonight there was no line, got a chair right away, but waited an hour before someone even acknowledged me. That was very frustrating. There were at least 2-3 people that sat down after me and yet got started before me. Otherwise, aside from waiting, all other experiences have been great!

Changing policy is fine but then make other changes to reflect this so people are not there sooo long...waited 20 minutes to get disconnected to have to wait again another 15 minutes for Saline shortages.

I live the staff and the center! Everyone is always so friendly and attentive, even when things don't go smooth with my red-stick status. They're the best!

Every time I come, the lines are extremely long. Staff are stressed, donors are unhappy, and management seems to think everyone wants to wait in line for hours. I don't get paid to use my valuable time to wait in line forever, because they can't staff the place properly.

I did not donate and sent an email to the corporate office. I am less than impressed with your staffing/appointment model and feel like it could use some updating.

Had a very pleasant experience here with the Phlebotomist Victoria. It was painless and quick and I was met very warmly. A kind soul who is very good at her job.

Everytime I come in everyone is so nice and friendly! I've never had a bad experience with them. Some of the associates that are memorable to me are Rhonda and Chad. But honestly everyone here is great.

The cleanliness of the facility, sterilization procedures, and regular training of staff make me feel confident about donating safely at BioLife. I really appreciate the staff that personally interact with me. It's great when someone who sticks you with a needle is also able to send you off with a good feeling as you tackle the rest of your day.

Definitely an issue with scheduling. Management either isn't paying attention or doesn't care that the process is very inefficient. The reviews consistently are telling them this but obviously they haven't made needed changes. Just be prepared for unpredictable long waits and inconsistencies. I can't blame the frontline workers who many times seem frustrated themselves as you listen to their comments. Good leadership is obviously lacking in this organization.

I have been going to Biolife pretty consistently for almost two years. It has been a great experience. The staff is always friendly and professional. I will be going weekly for the foreseeable future.

Every staff member was friendly and professional. Even though it was extremely busy at the time of my visit, they handled everything perfectly. The nurses were extremely informative and answered all my questions and the techs were super nice.

I've been donating for over seven years and I've been coming here for four years of the time. I have never been to a cleaner more safer facility. The workers here are always talking about their days and asking about mine. They try to make it as comfortable as a visit as possible.

I've been donating here for a few months now and have never had a bad experience! The staff is always so friendly and love to chat. Geneva was really helpful and talked me through everything in the donation process. It's a great experience!

Drew and his staff are amazing at this location. It is clean, and very efficient. I have been donating for a few months now. And while the back to school time was hectic with the U of I students back on campus it will wasn't too bad. The cool thing is they are always working to make the experience better. I would say my average trip in the door is 75-80 minutes. Well worth the time. Shoutout to Bri, Jake, Susan, and all the staff that make it a great experience.

I have had a wonderful experience every time I go in. The staff are always friendly, and they are all well trained. If any of them are EVER unsure about a needle insertion, they will go get a supervisor without hesitation. They are always concerned about the comfort and well being of their clients. No multiple pokes here! I have recommended several friends already! (The buddy bonus doesn't hurt either)

Coralville BioLife is so friendly and clean. They are very pleasant if you have questions or if you need to stop the donation.

Every time I come here. Everyone and everything is good and friendly. Staff treat me with respect and are curiosity. Thank you all for making me feel comfortable every time I go. Keep up the great work. Bathrooms are always clean.

Have been donating for a while now at this center, and the staff are always so helpful, positive, and talk you through the whole process and answer all your questions. I had Chad today as my phlebotomist and he always kills it, I feel comfortable in his hands and with the rest of the staff!

I've had an unpleasant experience in one way or another every single time I've come in to donate. The needle going into my arm is actually the most pleasant thing about being here the customer service is so bad. Wait times are atrocious regardless of how busy it is and even when it is finally your turn, you're still left waiting around. The last time I was in to donate the person checking my vitals entered them in wrong twice so I had to go see the nurse, I went back to see the nurse she told me she didn't

The Coralville plasma place is my go to. I used to use the one in Iowa City, but I definitely feel the Coralville center is better. The lighting is so much better, the decor is better, and the whole atmosphere seems cleaner and lighter. The center is large and can host a lot of people. The employees are very friendly and nice to chat with. They just hired a few new employees to help with the influx of people in busy times, which is very nice and keeps waiting times low. If you are new or have questions or

Chad is seriously the BEST and whenever I walk in and see him near my section I immediately feel better!!! Truly makes the entire donation process SO much easier? I would trust him poking and unhooking me each time no doubt!!

I've recently begun donating at BioLife and have enjoyed the friendliness of everyone employed there. During the physical screening, Kalista (nurse) made me feel welcomed, comfortable, answered my questions, and provided details of next steps related to a severe accident I was in years ago. The facility is always clean. The phlebotomists always ensure your safety and their safety by wearing protective gear and sanitizing the area after being used to donate.

Place is great in all regards except wait times. During the week there's always only one, maybe two people If you're lucky checking donors in at a time, while many other workers seem to just be standing around causing you to have to set aside 2-4 hours most days in order to get a donation in. Often when arriving there's 10-20 people waiting inside and outside. Really sucks for those wanting to keep their platinum bonuses but can't set aside 2-4 hours.

All of the staff is amazing. Any reviews saying they arent are probably people who are themselves, in the wrong. Just let them do their jobs and they're all amazing.

Maya was very sweet and helpful. I meant to write this review the same day but I forgot. I also had someone else who wrapped my arm after. I think his name was Will or something like that. He was extremely personable.

It was my second time going and i was there for a physical and donation. While talking to someone about my physical. The person told me i couldn't donate due to my allergies. I didn't have any allergies today and she had the audacity to say my eyes were watering even though they weren't. She was passive aggressive and rude and gave racists tendencies. Everyone else that was there especially this girl named Mariah was a blessing.

The techs and staff are kind and polite. It would have been nice for someone to tell me I wasn't qualified due to having epilepsy before I sat here for almost an hour and did their tests. I told multiple people I was on seizure medication and they waited until the last person who was just supposed to do an ?arm check? because I had a scab on my elbow to tell me ?epilepsy disqualifies you?. So just so you know you have to be off meds and seizure free for 5 years in order to donate.

I've have been going to BioLife on and off now for almost 12 years. I always have a pleasant experience. The staff are all super friendly and it's nice when they get to know you personally. I feel like an old friend whenever I go in.

Always come in the mornings and the staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating. Would definitely recommend to others. You're in and out in about an hour after your first visit The promotions are what brought me in the first place and they definitely keep me coming back. Plus, it's nice to help out someone else in need.

Great center with respectful employees. However, that is not where the complaint lies. This place is a logistical right now. Haven't donated in over 12 months and now I'm seeing why. Appointment at 9:30, didn't get the needle til 11:00. Place is advertised as fast cash. Far from it. Keep it in mind.

I have been coming here for a couple years now, and it is easily my favorite plasma donating center i?ve been to! Depending on what time I go, I can be in and out in about 60-90 minutes. The staff is super friendly and efficient. Highly recommend!

It's rare that you have customer-facing jobs that people clearly seem to be enjoying all the time, but the Coralville Biolife has one of the most amiable, thoughtful staff you can find anywhere. Hard-working, diligent and kind, these people really make the experience quick, painless, and pleasant.

Great job Rhonda on finger stick and vitals. Michelle did great job on arm needle stick. Nate saved me from a bubble. As always, Chad spread his cheer when unhooking me. Positive experience the whole entire time??

The older black lady at the front desk was very rude and disrespectful and on her phone the entire time she was taking my information. I would not come back here if given the option.

They care. Smooth process. Is busy in the afternoons.

Everyone is so nice !!! I want to give a shout out to Chad!!! He is such an amazing person!! He lights up the room .. he's always greeting people and making people feel comfortable A few of my coworkers talk about how amazing chad is!!

The experience is fast and easy. The people there are friendly and professional at what they do, they make sure you're in and out in no time.

I get so happy when I walk in and see Chad is there! I am always so pleased when he is my poker or unhooker, he is so friendly and makes me feel so comfortable. He's the best!! ????

Geneva is one of my favs! She is so personable and welcoming. She is efficient and takes the time to make you feel like you've known her forever!

Need to block 2-3 hours of your time for a donation session and not as they say (1-1.5hrs). Unusual wait time and if you open their app you will find appointments every 5-10 minutes, wondering why they have all those spots open when they cannot handle the amount of crowd! Wouldn't recommend to schedule this in a busy day as it will take so much time, effort and energy and frustration to be simply waiting. Hope they do something about their appointment system and do not open more spots if they cannot handle

I have a great experience her every time! Jake helped me and he was awesome! He made me feel calm and laugh so I wasn't nervous, he is awesome!

Edgewood center nurse and management make up lies to get a 15 year customer deferred for no reason. They are proven incorrect 100%. Then, they put words into your mouth and run with the story. They do not care about their people. Ask to speak to corporate and they conveniently don't have any information about corporate, yet corporate gives direction to their center. This happened twice within two years and, Their records have been changed on my account to their own liking. Terrible management a

It's convinient that I can make a little extra pocket money while being able to help others. And the daycare makes a big difference in being able to find the time to go. Thank you to the staff there as well to trying your best to provide a comfortable and safe environment.

Awful staff professionalism, first person that talked to me was constantly telling me that they are "off and they are just trying to go home" the patient/customer does not need to know that. She acted as if it was a burden that we were there and they didn't want us to donate plasma. The second person j delt with was much better but but first just left a bad taste in my mouth. Just generally not a nice experience at the front desk.

Takes way too long to donate. You have to wait an hour to donate. Another 20 minutes to get poked. Additional time to get disconnected. They definitely need more employees to handle the amount of people coming in. I've skipped donating just because it just takes way too long.

Always friendly service and very efficient! Positive attitudes go along ways and as busy as this location is, it amazes me how positive the staff is! Great Morale ??

Came in at 7a and I had to go to the bathroom really badly, but didn't want to miss my appointment clock-in. I started thinking I could make it through the questions. I couldn't and asked if I could re-sign-in, and the receptionist specifically told me the nurse could read me the rest of the questions instead and directed me to the bathroom. I come out and see the nurse who then tells me I'm being deferred. I was incredibly upset because there isn't anything posted nor was the receptionist versed enough in

The people are very knowledgeable and seem to care. There always friendly and I have yet to find a staff member "having a bad day" like I seem to do every day. All around a good experience I first donated for money and now I do.it because it was so simple and I'm helping someone.

Female heavy set supervisor rudely kicked me out of the center because I was embarrassed about my weight, and we all know this has an effect on our temperature. So, my temperature regerastered at 99.6 and the cut off is 99.5, I calmly asked the nice guy if there was someone else I could talk to about the temperature thing because mine usually runs low and this woman came out and told me to get out of the center because I was putting her and the other customers in danger! She said get out! I will be filing

My experience donating has been an amazing one. Everybody is so nice and makes you feel right at home. Facilities are nice and clean, good music to listen to. Keep up the good work guys and galls

I could put up with the 90+ minute wait times to even begin a donation. I could put up with inept attempts to social distance. Being asked to wait outside without a vehicle in below freezing weather is the line for me. How can you ask someone to do this? How could I ever recommend someone else donate here?

The staff is knowledgeable and friendly. The building is always very clean and well-kept. Appointments are easy and flexible. Payment is fair and quick. The only unfortunate part of BioLife is that the staff are often incapable of "sticking" a person. Therefore that inability can cause you to get deferred instead of donating.

Chad is THEE best!! I am VERY selective on who does my stick - Chad?s energy and willingness to ease my nerves is top notch. He's patient, hilarious, and has hands of an Angel!

As someone who has donated at various centers, this location is the quickest, most efficient, and well staffed I have ever been to! I greatly appreciate the friendly staff and their efficiency.

They're very good at getting you in and out quickly! T the staff has never had to stick me twice which is great because usually people struggle to find my veins! If you're thinking of donating plasma do it here! The wait is always short and the compensation provided is just the Cherry on top!

I've been donating plasma for a little over a month now and I just had my BEST donation yet with Chad as my phlebotomist. He talks to you throughout the whole process and I couldn't even feel it when he poked me. He is the best!

Coralville biolife is the best! I've gone to other centers and have not had the positive experience that I've had here. Rhonda is so welcoming up front, Chad?s positive energy is contagious, and Aiden is always so sweet! ??

The experience was great! Deb did an amazing job making sure my appointment was quick and easy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What disqualifies you from donating plasma?

Plasma donors can get disqualified for a list of different reasons, which may result in a temporary or a permanent deferral. Common reasons people get a temporary disqualification may include being dehydrated, taking certain medications, getting a tattoo within the last 4 months, or being pregnant in the last 6 months.

How can you donate plasma quickly?

Donating plasma can get busy with donors and long waiting times. To donate plasma faster, choose a plasma center that allows you to book an appointment online and take your health screening questionnaire remotely from home. Additionally, call your local plasma center and ask for the least busy days and times of the week.

Can you workout after donating plasma?

Most phlebotomists recommend that you take a day off from working out or lifting weights on the same day as your plasma donation. Instead, take the day to rest, eat well, and drink plenty of water after your donation.

How often can I donate plasma?

Plasma donors are legally capped at two donations per week or 7-day period, with at least 48 hours in between each donation.

What should I eat before donating plasma?

Before your plasma donation, it's recommended that you drink plenty of water (4-6 eight-ounce glasses), and eat a meal with high protein and iron content. Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking on the same day as your donation.