Octapharma Plasma Des Moines, IA

Octapharma Plasma Des Moines, IA

Reviews Summary

The majority of reviews praise the center for its friendly, efficient staff and positive atmosphere. Many highlight exceptional phlebotomy skills, with quick, painless procedures and excellent customer service. Some donors mention occasional issues with wait times or difficult sticks, but these are rare compared to the overwhelmingly positive experiences. The center is frequently recommended for its welcoming environment and professional, caring team. A few standout employees are consistently noted for their skill, humor, and ability to make donors comfortable. Most donors report smooth, enjoyable visits and plan to return.

About This Listing

Ages 18-70
Walk-ins are accepted, and online appointments, for both new and repeat plasma donors

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 18-70
Walk-ins are accepted, and online appointments, for both new and repeat plasma donors

Contact Information

Address

Suite 101, Des Moines

Des Moines, Iowa 50317

Customer Reviews

This was the absolute worst customer service/care I've ever received anywhere! The first day I donated the person helping me, forgot to clamp the line shut which cause my blood to pour out everywhere. It was air contaminated, which the tech had no clue if she should continue, which she did. She wasn't suppose too. The second time I came I waited for 40 minutes to be hooked to the machine. A machine I sat at the whole time while 3 workers talked with each other, gossiping & speaking poorly of this location.

I'm leaving a 3. Because it's a 5+ for friendliness and atmosphere. The people and place are great. Unfortunately the sticks are not. I often and up walking out looking like I've been through war to the point I'm not eligible to donate next time. It's my favorite of the options in Des Moines, but I have to move on after my last appointment tomorrow because the bad sticks are costing me $$$

Ethan has helped me each time I have came in to donate and it's been the smoothest process I've experienced. He is quick and efficient and very kind and attentive. Tay Tay is always near by when I've been here and she's a riot. Super personable, both of them. Definitely feels like I'm in good hands here, so thank you! :) (my name is Ebony, ignore my account name, it's my gaming email lmao)

I have been donating a few years at this location and hands down, Ethan and Tay are my favorite employees. They are both quick, efficient, gentle and a riot on the floor. You can definitely feel the positive vibe when those two are working. They also do a wonderful job training new employees and demonstrating the culture that gets them such positive feedback.

I have been going to this donation center for almost a year. They have one of the highest payouts, as they have opportunities for bonus money. The entire staff is extremely friendly to the customers/donors. I have had a couple poor experiences there, such as having to get re-stick due to them not doing it right. That's just something that is going to happen if your donating a lot and a trainee is sticking you. One time I was waiting over 15min to get disconnected.. This was during closing time and not many

Tay Tay is amazing! She is always happy and makes the time there fun. Ask for her you won't be disappointed she is the best!

It was an amazing donation due to Tay Tay! I barely felt her stick me and no adjustments were needed I was in and out within 43 mins! If you have the chance have Tay Tay be your phlebotomist!

I have always had trouble at many other donation centers with my difficult veins. But here?let me tell you?Ethan and Tay Tay both have never missed my difficult veins and ALWAYS make donating enjoyable. The make Grifols a great environment to save lives. ??

Y?all better give tay tay a raise . Sticks are impeccable, customer service is beautiful, hospitality straight from the south. So speedy and always got a smile on her face. Top tier employee <3

I have been coming here for 2 years. Everyone is very friendly. Ethan does a excellent job. He is very efficient and friendly. Tay Tay always has a smile on her face and will make you laugh. She is full of energy and after I have had a hard day of work she makes me smile.

Tay Tay Did a great job today. They got slammed towards the end of her shift which was around 1pm and I watched her keep her team fully functioning while under pressure. Awesome personality too.

I have been going there for a few years now. They have a lot of fun people working there one called Tay Tay is very upbeat and entertaining everyone. She stuck me how she did it with out me feeling anything I don't know. Keep her she is just a good person, and keep up the good work. I will recommend this place to anyone who wants to donate plasma. Thanks for being so kind and thoughtful of the donors.

I'm trying to find words to describe Scheila & Tracy.. some that come to mind to describe my experience with them include professional, patient, humility, and grace. Overall a great staff Itzul , taytay, and Luke are always all smiles and very kind !

Taytay and Ethan were amazing as usual. Makes the experience very easy and makes you want to come back

Tay Tay always does good poking me. I've donated over 12 years so I have a lot of scar tissue and others can't get my vein. She has to fix a lot of others who try to poke my arm. She always has good energy and a smile on her face. Thank you so much for being you and please don't ever leave Grifols!

All the employees are very kind and courteous. Tay Tay and Ethan do a great job!

Tay Tay done a great job today with my plasma I came in today again December 17th and yes Tay Tay done a wonderful job with my plasma. I LIKE it when there's people that work there and that dies their job like she does.All of the employees there do a great job and they understand I have picky veins at times.They know what arm to use each time.

Ethan and Tay Tay are hands down some of the best to stick you! Carefull and respectful when it comes to your comfort and they past time by having a good time while also working.

Great atmosphere and Everyone here is and has been amazing. There are times when I forget my stress ba and Alexa will make me a "ball" using a glove and blowing it up. She definitely has always gone above and beyond in her position when it comes to clients. I'd recommend this center to anyone wanting a enjoyable donating experience.

Ethan was awesome! Very attentive and got me on the first poke! One of the many reasons I choose Grifols over BioLife!

Ive been coming twice a week for a few months now and it is always quick and easy to get the donation done. Alexa is very friendly and gets my poke done with ease every timw

Tay-Tay is awesome! I always trust she will get it done right and she never disappoints

The young lady Tay Tay is great at her job! I know I will be in the best care when I see her face. Totally recommend giving this donation center a try. You won't regret it.

I like the staff there very good and they need more people like Ethan and Tay Tay

Absolutely amazing experience as a first time donor here! Iam so pleased with the staff especially Tay Tay she was very sweet, informative & I barely left the poke! She needs a raised she very great at what she does and I can tell she loves her job which made me feel secured that I'm in the right hands! 10/10!

Great experiences every time I visit. TayTay, Ethan and Jace are always in good moods, as well as experienced in their trade. I never have any issues under their care, and I always leave with a smile. Thank you for your skills and for the energetic and entertaining personalities while I donate.

I love the employees here, I've been coming 3 years now and recommend an employee named Raven which you can request. They have been working on speed getting you in and out and I can't say enough about how quick it is even when busy. I've been to the other places and here I am with grifols. It's hard to beat the service to the comp here. Raymond Thompson

Always has issues donating at biolife, so was very wary to come here but oh my gosh it's been SUCH a great experience(never thought I'd say that about plasma and needles but I had such a good experience today I had to write about it!) Been coming here for almost a year now and this place is so well run I've even recommended it to friends and family. Never had to wait-even without an appointment-they get us right back within five minutes of being there. Also, the employees have been there for years and are

Great atmosphere. New donor, I was in and out within 2hrs. Tay performed my stick, she did amazing. I would recommend this place to friends and family.

It's a great place and tay tay is a great worker she goes above and beyond she is awesome

Taytay and Ethan are the best. They are always being funny but doing there job great at the same time. Always a great donation when they are there.

All staff are professional & friendly everytime I come in. Tay Tay & Ethan really make my donation process smooth & enjoyable. I look forward to my donation days not only for the compensation, but to be able to see & chat with them is always nice. I highly recommend.

I was very nervous about donating and the team there made me feel very comfortable! Terry made sure that I ate a good meal before and talked me through the process and Tay Tay was making me laughing and helping me keep my mind occupied! I'm so glad I choose Grifols Biomat to donate!

Taytay was great and walked me through everything making my first plasma donation a breeze. Tracy was fast, efficient and super helpful with the physical!

They had me waiting for almost 30 minutes to get stick. Then I have gotten stick wrong. Have to use the bathroom and told me I couldn't and if I do I wouldn't get paid.

I've been coming here for a while and the staff are pretty chill. Ethan and Tay Tay know their stuff and are hard workers. They will get you in and out quickly. Hats off to them.

Tay tay, Eathen they are both funny and i really enjoy coming here when they are here. They both make my day and hope there is more staff like them. Thank to both of them for making my day.

TT and Ethan are great at what they do. My vein is tricky and they get it every time, with no problems. Like this place, recommended.... ??

Tay Tay and Alexa are amazing techs, they're very knowledgeable about their jobs and they are so quick! The positive attitudes they bring to work make the place fun and relaxing.

Got in quick. Staff was very friendly. Especially Tay Tay! Good energy. Always smiling!

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.