Back to Directory
Octapharma Plasma Oakland, CA

Octapharma Plasma Oakland, CA

Reviews Summary

Most reviews praise Canventa for its skilled, kind, and attentive staff, making donations smooth and comfortable, even for first-timers or those nervous about needles. Many highlight the professionalism, cleanliness, and seamless process, with several donors returning repeatedly. However, a few negative experiences mention rude staff, poor communication, and one case of medical complications. Overall, the majority recommend Canventa highly, citing excellent care and positive experiences.

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

#100, Oakland

Oakland, California 94605

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Customer Reviews

I came here for bone marrow donation and had a great experience. Mai and Arene were both super nice and made sure the procedure was as easy and painless as possible. They gave me my check right after and made sure I was hydrated before I left, and went over everything I needed to know. The sites are healing really well. Can't wait to come back in 8 weeks!

The professionals at Canventa are the gold standard for donor care. I have donated there several times and it has always been a smooth process. The care and interpersonal communication at all phases of the process made it very easy to return. They genuinely care about you and place your comfort at the highest regard. The facility is clean and in a great location. If you are interested in donating I emphatically recommend Canventa. I cannot donate there any more because I have aged up, and I never thought I

Do not donate here. One of the doctors that did a bone marrow donation permanently damaged my nerves. I called and spoke to a nurse who became very defensive and claimed that the doctor knew what she was doing and never had any complaints. She also said that some donors are, "more sensitive". I have donated multiple times before and never had an issue; but from the start this person didn't know what she was doing and now I pay the price. They have new staff that take care of scheduling and they also do not

There is great service... Good service.... And bad service....This company, the crew, and great nurses....(Paula, Jill, and Andrew)....provided the best service and care for me one could ask for from beginning to end.... I would highly recommend this company's service and the people who work here if your on the fence and considering it.... They are kind....considerate.... And know how to do there job well....

I donated my white blood cells this past Monday and had a great experience. It was my first time ever donating blood and I'm also quite scared of needles, but the nurses at Caventa are so kind and attentive so it really wasn't a scary process at all. There wasn't much pain during the actual procedure and the process to get started (screening and scheduling a donation appointment) was seamless. I will definitely be donating white blood cells here again. Perhaps even bone marrow if I can qualify for the weigh

I started donating around November, with a total of 3 donations. My first two times were amazing. As the staff took really good care of me, they were super attentive, welcoming and understanding, as well as communicated well what was going on. Unfortunately, the third time coming in, my experience wasn't so great. The beginning was ok, although the attitude of the receptionist was very passive aggressive. Beside the point, the first thing that irritated me, was during the whole procedure, the nurses were t

Every experience I've had with Canventa has been great! I've done every type of donation (whole blood, leukapheresis, bone marrow) here and each time has gone as smoothly and as quickly as possible. Staff is incredibly friendly and skilled at their jobs, and it's easy to find parking in the area.

This place is awesome. The whole staff is amazing. And it pays REALLY WELL. You can go online to schedule a screening to see what donations you qualify for. It is definitely worth your while. Even if its quite a drive. Get over your fear of needles and get hydrated!! Hello, research, here I come!

I was not qualified for a donation because I was below the average. Mariann Little was such a sweetheart. She genuinely chatted with me and it made feel better. Great recommendations on what to eat to help bring my numbers up. I now know what lentils are.

I was donating here for a while but sadly was running late to an appointment, and when I called to let the nurse know, she was extremely rude in her tone of voice and then hung up on me. It made me feel really low and hurt my heart to be cast to the side from a place I've gone to for years

I love coming to Canventa! The staff is very skilled and make the process of donation a breeze. If you're in the Bay Area and looking to donate, this is the place to go.

Wonderful and professional staff all around. They're very experienced and make the process very smooth. They like to take care of you and make sure you're comfortable during your time.

The team that works here is amazing!

Amazing people

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.