Octapharma Plasma Lynchburg, VA

Reviews Summary

The majority of reviews are extremely positive (5-star), praising the friendly, caring, and professional staff, as well as the clean, modern facility. Many highlight the rewarding experience of donating blood and the kindness of the nurses, making the process comfortable and enjoyable. A few mention first-time donors feeling at ease due to the attentive care. The only negative review (1-star) criticizes the no walk-in policy and perceived lack of flexibility from staff, despite available resources. Overall, the center is highly regarded for its excellent service and positive impact.

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

# 23, Lynchburg

Lynchburg, Virginia 24502

Phone

434-237-6861

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Customer Reviews

My first blood donation experience was here. Every staffs and nurses were so nice and they do their job enthusiastically. I saw many donors there and I was so happy to see their positive effect towards to people in society. I want to keep donate my blood regularly to contribute helping people's lives!

Red Cross doesn't take walk-ins when they hound you nearly daily for your O- blood. My husband was turned away for donation at this location this past Saturday as a walk in, even though I had an appointment and we are both O-. The staff was unwilling to explain this policy or make an exception, even on a weekend, with two young people taking time out of their day to help others, and with multiple gurneys open and ready to use, and with several staff members visibly sitting down "hardly working," but with pl

I went in recently and arrived way early. First time donating blood, was nervous and made them aware. Tameka was training Claire and they were both friendly and attentive to me. During the donation they kept me talking and the next thing I knew, it was done. What a great first experience. Thank you very much Tameka and Claire.

Thanks to Tawanda for making this experience so much greater!

I've been donating at the Lynchburg ARC donation center for a couple years now. The people there are wonderful, and really know what they're doing. I highly recommend giving blood or platelet donations on a regular basis.

Went here for the first time yesterday. Lovely and friendly staff. They will take wonderful care of you! What precious ladies! Super nice and clean facility as well

Why donate anywhere else? The people who work here are perfectly friendly, kind, and professional. Donating blood is probably the easiest way for the average person to save (or help save) someone's life. Undoubtedly worth your time, and the good people here make it easy.

Tawanda and her team were excellent! They brought joy and light to the donation center! Can't wait to come back!

The facility is very clean and looks relatively new. The staff who work there are nothing but kind and helpful and really made me enjoy the donation experience!

I am a platelet donor so know this place well. Best nurses in the world, careful and kind! Lovely ladies, they make me happy to see them always.

Thank y'all for such great experiences life has to offer!!

Very caring people there. Great way to do a good deed!!

Great staff and the new facility is great!

New facility is really nice

Love helping people in need.

Great charity to support.

Friendly and gentle!

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.