CSL Plasma Pittsburgh, PA

CSL Plasma Pittsburgh, PA

Reviews Summary

Most reviews praise the friendly, professional staff and thorough explanations, especially for first-time donors. Many highlight the clean facilities and good customer service, though some note long wait times during initial visits. Compensation and the rewarding nature of donating are frequently mentioned positives. However, a few criticize disorganization, rude staff, or eligibility issues, with isolated complaints about unprofessional behavior or racial bias. Overall, experiences skew positive, with most donors planning to return despite minor drawbacks.

About This Listing

Ages 18-69
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 18-69
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

3470 William Penn Parkway

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15235

Customer Reviews

Don't go if you wanna waste your time they told me I could donate then told me I couldn't because they needed a form form my doctor and when I said I didn't have one they said well then we can't help you

I love everyone I've dealt with here. I have some fears of needles, but they're all so understanding and nice, and took care of me when I did have a reaction (my fault, I didn't eat for a few hours). Thank you all!

I tried signing up to be a donor. After answering all the questions and watching videos.. I was told that someone was going to come out and get me for my vitals and physical sat there over 45 minutes to an hour and still nobody came to get me.The staff is very rude. And I watch myself get skipped over when a Caucasian lady came in to donate versus me as an African-American man. Even though there's black people that work there I feel that that place is very biased towards African Americans.

Avoid this Plasma Donation company. Nurse/Phlebotomist causes veins to collapse. Causing Deferrals. Facility Manager refuses to compensate for these damages when they occur. Quotes Policies that are Illegal in Nature. Far as compensation for causing injuries, that in turn cause deferral. Then permanently defer you when you mention consulting with an Attorney about the situation. Which is Malicious Retaliation. Donor beware.

The staff is incredible. I've never met a nicer bunch of people! I was smiling and laughing through the entire thing. I was told the steps perfectly and was never confused at any point. The building was clean and inviting. If you are thinking about it, I think you should just do it! :)

Pretty good overall. I had some trouble with getting started due to the front desk being unmanned when I started, but was able to be helped relatively quickly. I was able to get in and out in my first time around in less than 3 hours, which is frankly pretty good considering all of the technical issues that happened. The staff was friendly and helpful, and made sure that the donation process was as quick and painless and possible.

With west Homestead and mckeesport being closed on Sunday, I went to this location on a Sunday. I got screened fairly quickly but had to do my annual check up. I waited for a half hour to 45 minutes before giving up and leaving. I'm a very patient person and I was told there was only one nurse, but not one person acknowledged me waiting, and I'm pretty sure I got skipped over. Also this particular day and location was not that busy. Very disappointed by this location.

Less wait times over Bio-Life in Braddock however Bio-Life pays $15 more than CSL Plasma. Just not worth waiting longer times for $15 at Bio-Life. So, this was my preferred center. Wish they would pay the same as Bio-Life. Friendly staff and recognize you as you become a regular. Always in and out no more than 2 hours. Less questionnaire screening than Bio-Life.

The whole experience was great. Everyone was very professional and friendly. The ladies on the donor floor did a great job and put me at ease. Jacque was very helpful and guided me through the process and physical. She called the next day and checked how my wife and I were feeling and I appreciate the extra steps she took through the whole process.

My first time was good. I did eat what I should?ve though and the one female staff member was nice to me and helped me relax. The other lady also was helping me get distracted from getting my needle in because I don't really like them. But overall most of the staff was nice. Some do seem to have attitudes at night though

Came here for my first ever donation and was very pleased with everything. Starting from the moment I walked in the employees were very helpful and explained everything to me thoroughly. When I went in for my physical the nurse I met was very nice. Then when I went into donate all of the staff were very friendly and funny also and they made sure everyone was okay and taken care of.

The staff was all very helpful and thorough. They explained everything and made me feel very comfortable with the entire process. The physical they gave me was more thorough than my regular doctor! The first visit does take a lot of time, but it is worth it.

Always a relatively quick process there and every staff member I've dealt with in the past 2 months has been excellent.

My first time went extremely well. I was greeted, gave my information, and started watching the video as soon as I came in. Everyone was extremely thorough with what would exactly happen. The process was simple and easy. You can donate twice a week. Make sure you are hydrated and eat something before you go. It helps the process go faster.

Update your zip codes. Morgantown isn't that far. Horrible

my first time donating was was great and easy. the employees are super nice and explained everything really well and made me feel comfortable. the process wasn't too long and i felt fine after. definitely going back :)

Monique & Jamil we're FANTASTIC! They really made my whole experience as a new donor so simple and easy. I will go back for sure. My only complaint was on the donor floor area 2 young ladies didn't want to ?deal with me? because I was new. One of those young ladies was also complaining about how she didn't want to be there. Just felt it was unprofessional. Overall experience was great and I felt fine through the process as well as after.

I've never done anything like this before, but I was intrigued after seeing the yard signs near the street. I had to go back twice because they were understaffed on the afternoon that I went in. But they gave me a bonus on the next time I came in and went through the process. It takes a few hours on the first visit, but all in all it was relatively painless (pun intended). All of the staff were friendly, the space was clean, and it was pretty easy to do. 5 stars.

Clean and efficient. Your first trip will take the whole three hours but everyone was helpful and they get you setup for an easy return visit. Had the money on my card a few minutes after getting out of the chair.

Terrible place the workers treat all the all the donors like junkies. They always talk about them in their face. They have a racist vibe there as a donor I asked why they don't celebrate BHM on Feb. they said that's not really a thing. The Indian woman who runs the place doesn't really like black people. You can tell the way she looks at them or reprimands them in front of donors. There's a supervisor there named Raymond I believe and he talks about all the donors personal lives as a donor I do not understa

My first experience was great. I was welcomed when I came in. The process was very thorough and the staff were super friendly. Monica, the nurse explained everything step by step and checked on me to make sure I was ok while donating and even walked me out afterwards. I received a call from a nurse the day after to ask me how I was feeling and if there were any concerns. I would definitely recommend Monroeville?s facility .

This CSL was more than helpful despite the technological difficulties I had at the kiosk, the process was relatively smooth. The staff and management were welcoming and answered all my questions, despite having a large influx of donors. It is worth the drive and the rates at this center aren't too bad !

First donation was smooth, easy, and felt very safe. No issues at all. Takes about 3 hours for first donation, but mostly to fill out all the paperwork and do the screenings and physical. Looking forward to going back. Staff was very patient, helpful and truly wanted to make sure I was comfortable. Highly recommend.

Had a great first time there. The initial sign up process takes a few hours and the employees are very professional and polite. While the needle is larger than I had expected, the couple seconds of discomfort are well worth the compensation you receive. Will definitely continue to donate.

The building is very clean, and the staff are so bubbly and kind. I'm only giving it 4 stars however bc one nurse there just seemed kind of rude, I get we all have bad days though, so I'm trying to give the benefit of the doubt. Otherwise it was generally a pleasant first time donating.

Had my first donation experience on Sunday. It went very well. Smooth process. Clean facilities. Friendly staff. My only question is: where are the ?special promotions? for this center that are supposed to be emailed to me? I believe they are also supposed to come through the app as well? Still plan on donating 8 times this month.

I've only been to this location twice once for my initial donation and another time for a follow up. If you need quick cash fast then they'll pay you, but as far as the staffing goes it's up in the air. 90% of the staff is very unprofessional from the top down and you will probably feel uncomfortable physically or mentally. They seem to prefer some donor?s over others so if they don't like you they'll let you know with a very cold hearted attitude and very little information on what to do. They'll probably

It was me and my husband?s first time donating. We both felt very comfortable with the process, as it was explained thoroughly. We both have difficult veins, however their skilled staff was able to hit both of our veins. Very impressed!

Wonderful experience! The staff here do such a great job at walking you through everything from beginning to end. The onboarding is very thorough to make sure you understand the process completely. The donation process is super simple as well. So rewarding to know we are making a difference in others lives, while making some extra cash in the process. Please consider donating! :)

Clean facility nice and welcoming great employees Sarah the screener Ray the manager and Jordan she's great with sticking you her n Ray highly recommended lol had a great day today thx u guys at the center everyone there

The ladies who helped me through the initial process were all wonderful. Everything was explained thoroughly and they all made me feel comfortable with the donation process. The process itself was very straight forward and only took about 45 minutes total. The facility is very clean and organized.

The center is very clean. They are following medical and COVID procedures. The staff was amazing and super friendly and explain the whole process along the way! Karen was amazing to deal with very friendly talkative and getting to know you while doing her job! I highly recommend donating at this location as well as the staff on the floor seems very knowledgeable and knows what goes on and explaining to you on your first donation.

This facility is super clean. I love the staff for this location, they're so friendly and helpful. I felt completely comfortable and at ease which was a relief. Everything was explained well and the app makes check-in easier.

The facility was very clean, the staff were very nice. They did forget about me at one point which made my first visit an additional hour. They were very busy. They did apologize for that, I was not expecting to be there for 4.5 hours. Overall, it was a great experience.

I was apprehensive about donating, but after walking in and meeting the staff my worries were gone. The facility was very clean and welcoming. They explained the procedure in depth multiple times before it started. I would definitely recommend this facility. The only thing that held my process up was other clients not having the documentation they needed, so if you go, remember to take everything you need.

Overall, staff was friendly and welcoming. Screening and onboarding for first-time donors relatively straightforward, not much of a wait to be processed. Clean, well-maintained facilities and adequately staffed. Management is very attentive.

Everyone was very knowledgeable and kind. Definitely went better than i had hoped for, people usually have trouble when trying to draw blood from me. No problems at all, couldn't ask for a smoother experience.

First experience donating. Positive overall. The first visit is a little long and somewhat confusing, but staff was attentive to my needs. Someone else felt light headed while I was there and they were quick to assist and ensure her safety.

Donated for the first time this past weekend, despite the line that had formed at the door prior to them opening I was able to get in quickly and start the process for becoming a new donor. Once I had gone over the educational material and registered I was taken back to a clean bed where I was hooked up and out the door within 40 minutes. A great way to make some extra cash.

Went to this location for initial screening and donation on 2/9/2022. They employees could not have been nicer and more professional. The only negatives were their new donor bonus was almost half as much as the Youngstown Ohio CSL (which my zip code was not eligible for) and the fact that it took almost 3 hrs for the first time. However, the employees weee so nice that it didn't feel like almost 3 hrs

good customer service, and the woman who put the needle in my arm made me feel comfortable and safe! especially cause thats the worst part. friendly staff and clean atmosphere. definitely will be returning.

The staff is very friendly. The facility is very clean. Customer service was definitely on point. They explained the process of donating plasma. Answered any questions I had. They even called me the next day to see how I was feeling. I give them 5 stars.

Received very great service and the informed consent process was extremely detailed and well-explained. The staff was so polite, and had no problem answering any questions that I had. Would definitely recommend!

My first time donating was an absolute breeze. From the minute I walked in, I was greeted with a friendly vibe. The whole process was easily explained and, so we're the risks. The setup of the stations were easy to follow. The first time donating, the process takes a few hrs to complete but, you're compensated well for your time and donation. I highly recommend CSL Plasma to anyone who is considering donating??.

Staff are very friendly and explain everything very throughly and in detail. Facility is also well kept and clean. The only reason I gave it 4 stars is the amount of time spent there. Expect to be there 3/4 hours on your first visit.

The staff were super friendly. My first intake appointment took about two hrs and that was even w the donation. The staff were in a super pleasant mood and checked up on me the entire donation time to make sure I was OK and comfortable.

When I went to homestead, the lady was very rude, like extremely rude and tried to argue with me about wether my middle name was valid or not. I go to monroeville a week later and by far 2000x better. Way more professions, friendlier, happier to do their job. All the front desk people were professional and having fun. You could feel the positivity and happiness in the air. The medical staff in the back could do a better job at checking to make sure all the patients are okay regularly than just checking up o

I went Sunday morning. Staff was very nice and friendly and helpful. Very organized and was a pleasant experience overall. Not one bad thing to say. Highly recommend!

Very well knowledgeable staff. Everyone was friendly. It was very clean. The process was explained perfect. All the steps taken before donation were simple. I'm actually bringing my brother today!

I would recommend. It's been a really good experience . The intake experience was friendly and informative. They are careful to make sure your safety is a priority. Staff makes you feel at ease and it's a clean inviting environment.

The staff was friendly and helpful. It was a long wait for the first time because as most places are they are understaffed but the nurse checking me in made sure to keep me updated with the process. Towards the end I felt light headed but I was attended to quickly and given the option to end the donation. I have donated blood before but never plasma, its nice go know you are helping people while also being compensated. Will return for sure.

If you're apprehensive about donating plasma, I can assure you that this facility is super clean and the staff is very helpful throughout what is a really thorough screening process that's required to begin donating. I wish I caught the name of the woman who helped me on the donor floor ? she explained everything so well, kept checking in on me and inserted the needle quickly and almost painlessly. She even gave me something to squeeze when the machine contracts and you need to open and close your fist.

Although the beginning process was slow as to be expected, the staff was pleasant and the process was painless. My first experience was 10/10. the follow up call was greatly appreciated.

I've had a very difficult experience at this location, twice now. Otherwise, 5 stars! I hope there are no other reviews or experiences similar to mine... They did call me back to check on me, ?? which is a blessing to know that this matters and people care.

I had the best experience at CSL Plasma Pittsburgh. The staff is so friendly and funny. They will have you in and out in no time! 1st visit takes a while, but it's worth it. Looking forward to becoming a regular!

Very attentive and friendly staff

Staff was friendly and helpful. They were also incredibly patient. Phlebotomist (I can't remember her name) was very careful to not stick me with the needle until she was SURE she found a good vein. My veins are pretty small, and I've had nurses stick me repeatedly and seemingly just dig around for a vein, carelessly. So I know how much it means to have your comfort be considered and she did a good job of that. And honestly, I hate having injections or IVs, but it was worth the reward. I'm about to leave th

Had never given any sort of blood before so was very nervous at first. The staff did a great job of walking me through everything and made the process pretty painless. Easy way to make some quick cash and help save a life. Highly recommend!

My experience at the center was great. The facility was very clean and welcoming. The first donation takes about 3 hours but the compensation is worth the time you wait. I look forward to donating again.

First donation experience went very well. Very clean and tidy. All staff was nice. ?? Intake was over three hrs but it was worth it. I'll be back next week!

Very profesional staff, from the ones checking you in on the front desk to the ones on the donor floor. Jordy is so energetic she makes the experience enjoyable. Dar, Stacey, Jon, Raymond, lexi, Aliefair, PK just to name a few. Such a great group of people.

Overall good experience at this site - friendly and very helpful staff. Unfortunately unable to donate this first time as veins too small - gotta hydrate better I suppose! I'm in the healthcare field and know that every donation counts to somebody somewhere, so hopefully on my next visit I'll be successful.

Staff was very nice and were a huge help when I started feeling sick. Was super nervous going in but they made me feel at ease. Would definitely recommend coming here

Been waiting over a month for a referral bonus. Keep getting the run around from corporate. DO NOT RECOMMEND ANYONE THEY WILL NOT GIVE YOU YOUR BONUS. I and the 8 people I know and the people I told to go there will not be donating until I receive my 50$ referral. Such a shame.

Used a promotion for this facility. Each time it was short staffed. Decreased the operating hours. Needle inserted incorrectly twice causing serious bruising and had to wait 2 weeks to donate. At that time my promotion had expired and they would not honor it. Very disappointing as a first experience.

After a horrible experience with Biolife and being turned away by Grifols it was a pleasure to come see this staff! Greeted very warmly by Ina and Ian...that's not a typo ?? All staff was courteous, professional and kind. Thank you Ian, Ina, Stacey and Alliefair you all made me feel like I've been coming here for years. 10 ???????? and 3 ????????

Staff is nice, place is clean but the wait times are so long, they are very unorganized and send you from line to another. Also the systems were not working and had to go from room to room to get a working fingerprint. Very disappointed in the overall experience.

Great experience. No problems, of course the first was a little longer because of the physical and all the videos and paperwork but other than that place was knowledgeable, clean and very friendly

Takes awhile to get started but I feel adequately compensated as well as it being for a good cause. Staff is friendly and professional, facility is clean and comfortable.

Friendly and very informative staff. I feel lucky to get paid for something that could save another person's life, and I get paid well (donor fees) none the less. My first day going was 1/29/22 and I look forward to going back. - James R. Styslinger

Staff was vague with instructions, a bit rude, and no one seemed to be on the same page. They had me go through everything before realizing I wasn't eligible to donate at this location as I had donated at a different location previously. I felt like a bother and like everyone was in a hurry. I will not go back to this location in the future.

I had an amazing experience at CSL Plasma in Monroeville. The staff was super helpful and explained the process thoroughly. The facility was also extremely clean. I would recommend to anyone who wants to donate for the cause or needs a few extra dollars during the year!

1st donation went very well. I have been donating blood for 11 times but never did plasma before. I have read the reviews before my first donation and prepared to be there for 3 hours. I spent 2 hours and 50 minutes for my first donation. Everyone there is very nice, even they're under-staff, long wait at donor floor, some donor was angry to wait for so long, with all the pressure and they treated me very nice and respectful. The center is very clean and most areas are open, other than the rooms for collect

This was my second attempt trying to be seen here. Felt like I was on a wild goose chase. The staff was very unprofessional and extremely rude. I checked in on time had all my information with me as required but was told that I could give plasma. The most frustrating this was that was not even taken into a interview room or blood drawing area to have my arms examed probably. I was standing at a counter in front of everyone which was extremely embarrassing. Such a horrible experience waste of time and wit

Friendly staff. First time I had to get turned away due to technical issues. I came back 2 days later and got my first time done in about 3 hours which is normal for the first time. Overall was a decent experience.

If you're looking for a way to not only save lives but also get compensated for it, CSL Plasma is a great option. The initial process is simple. The staff is friendly , professional and informative making sure that your experience through and through is exceptional.

I have never considered donating plasma until a close relative of mine was diagnosed with a medical condition in which is plasma is used for the treatment. Having someone close going through a medical situation prompts you to educate yourself on everything you can find relating to the situation. My findings? Plasma truly does save lives; And it is needed more than ever. With this knowledge, I located my nearest donation center- CSL Pittsburgh. All of the first time donor information on their website was eas

Everyone was very kind & professional.I was unable to donate my 1st few time because of my blood pressure / heart rate. Anyone I dealt with was great, I waited a couple weeks & was finally able to donate. Thank GOD!

My first time donating and the process was fast and easy. The staff is friendly and professional. Very impressed by the set up and cleanliness.

Almost the entire staff was warm and welcoming, going out of their way to ensure a good experience (only one outlier, but that seemed more of a personal trait than reflection of the business). Will be returning!

Had a great First experience donating plasma . I was a little nervous but the staff made me feel very comfortable and they were very welcoming . The staff was amazing and the facility was clean and sanitized . First time does take some time so do set time aside for your first donation .

The staff at this location is very welcoming and professional. The facility itself was very well maintained and clean. Overall the visit was very pleasant and easy.

This was my first time donating and my experience was great! I was greeted the moment I walked in. The entire staff was kind especially the phlebotomist Ally! They also explained everything very thoroughly. I would definitely recommend CSL plasma in the future.

My first time donating went very well and was an easy process. The staff was extremely nice and explained everything thoroughly. I will be going back to donate again.

It was generally a professional and good experience. Will be more prepared next time. However next time I went I found nurses were not nurses and managers were not managers. They had trouble getting plans plasma from me the first couple times. I was not in it for the money. My sister gets plasma treatments and I thought I give back. They lied and banned me for their incompetence. None knew what PRN meant.

They have 6 stations for checking people in but leave them empty, letting one singular employee work the station and check people in one at a time (and it's always the same person, some nice girl named Alexis I think). There was a line to the door and there are employees leaning around on the counters, looking around, balls deep in their phone, staring at customers and doing absolutely nothing to help move the line along, while I and literally 14 other people waited over an hour for the line to move 1 perso

I am a first time donor an had a great experience. Had little bit of wait but the staff was great. I'm a hard stick an was turned down by another place but here they were amazing got it in one an barely felt it.

staff were hard working, kind and professional! Just over worked and stressed as there were only 5 professionals on site. More and more donor coming in every min. so what was regularly a hour and half visit turned into almost 4 hours.

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.