ORANGE PARK, Fla. — "Make Money. Make a difference." Those are the words on the door of the OctaPharma Plasma in Orange Park.
With inflation, gas prices and rising rent costs, you might be looking for ways to save money or make more money.
"A lot of them [donors] do describe the struggles they are going though with the gas prices, with rent increases," describes Tia McGraw, the Center Director and Associate Regional Director.
McGraw says they have noticed an increase in donors, but says it could be donors coming back post-pandemic and/or donors needing money to help offset inflation. Either way, they seem happy to earn extra money and know their plasma is being used for life-saving treatments.
"The big ones are going to be shock, trauma, immune deficiencies, hemophilia, we do Rh for pregnant mothers that have compatibility issues with their babies," she says.
To donate plasma you need to be between 18 and 70 years old and in general good health. You will go through a health assessment on your first visit and make sure to bring a valid photo ID, social security card and proof of residency. After that, it is off to the donor floor and McGraw says don’t let a fear of needles scare you away from donating.
"We do have employees that stay with them through the donation process, so often times that helps them understand that it is not bad, but once they get through the needle prick they often come back on a frequent basis," she says.
So now the question you probably want answered the most: how much can you make?
Well, it varies on several factors.
First, it depends on how often you donate. The max is twice within seven days. Also on your weight, because the amount of plasma that can be donated is based on your Body Mass Index. So the more that can be taken and the more time it takes to donate, the more you will be compensated.
The range can be from $25 to $60 per donation and you will get your money on a pre-paid card that same day. The prices at donation centers can vary, so make sure you are calling ahead to ask about pricing. Also, ask if there are any first time/new donor bonuses because those could add up to hundreds of dollars in your first month.
McGraw says she understands the financial draw to donate plasma, but hopes people remember their donations will make a difference.
"The people coming in to donate that plasma," she says. "They are choosing to save lives whether they know it or not."
For more information on OctaPharma Plasma donations and pricing visit here:
Website: https://www.octapharmaplasma.com/
Frequently asked questions: https://www.octapharmaplasma.com/plasma-donation-faqs/
Payment calculator: https://www.octapharmaplasma.com/payment-program-calculator/