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Octapharma Plasma San Diego, CA

Octapharma Plasma San Diego, CA

Reviews Summary

Reviews are mixed but lean negative, with frequent complaints about poor staff treatment, slow processing times, and unclean facilities. Some mention feeling undervalued or disrespected during donations. Payment issues and inconsistent policies also frustrate donors. A few highlight the financial benefit as worthwhile despite wait times. Overall, dissatisfaction centers on service quality and environment, overshadowing the monetary incentive for many.

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

3232 Duke St

San Diego, California 92110

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Customer Reviews

This place will treat you like a second class citizen. They just got done with massive renovations and yet still can't be bothered to improve their God awful bathrooms let alone the apparent egregious expense for paper towels. On top of that, don't expect most of the staff to pay much attention to you while drawing blood; most of the time while handling your blood they're chatting away as if they're working at a nail salon. Seriously, you will be treated like cattle. Maybe you get a little more money, but y

Was told that my protein being low on a screening sample that was sent to whatever facility made me ineligible to donate until my protein is back up. It makes 0 sense as they test the protein level prior to taking plasma. The lady at the front made herself look like a clown when I asked her to point out where that having low protein will deem me ineligible to donate until further notice and proceeded to pull out the binder and pointed to a section that only stated "Protein Screening Every 4 Months" What

I understand that wait times can be frustrating. However you are being paid at least at my weight 65$ a week and with the bonuses I make about 375$ a month. If you were to break that down by the time spent you are making about 23.43$ an hour. (375 dollars divided by eight donations multiplied by 2 hours for average visit.) Even at 3 hours a visit you make about 15.62$ an hour. Tax free. And minimum wage is 11.50$ or 12$ now so you're still profiting for your time.

Their payment website has been down for three days. They are processing people much slower now...average two hours..and the men's bathroom stinks. When will they fix the vent fan. Try Griffols Biomat!

(Translated by Google) wowwww (Original) wowww

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.