Donor Information
At Michigan Blood Collection, every donation is collected specifically for in vitro research, which are laboratory studies that take place outside the human body, such as in test tubes, dishes, or specialized instruments. This type of research is an essential pre-clinical step, allowing scientists to study how diseases function at the cellular level, test new therapeutic approaches, and develop safer, more effective treatments before moving into clinical trials.
When you donate, your sample may become a valuable tool that researchers use to answer critical scientific questions. While your blood can directly support groundbreaking discoveries, your personal identifying information is always kept strictly confidential. All collection and storage processes follow industry standards and and ISO-certified protocols designed to ensure donor privacy, HIPAA compliancy, safety, and ethical stewardship of every sample.
Current Priority Collections and Research Targets Include:
-
Normal Blood Samples
-
This means blood samples not being actively treated for an uncured disease
-
This is the donation of a full unit of blood (450mL)
-
The time for this donation is paid at $50
-
Your Donation May Help Researchers Find Treatments and Cures for Diseases
Blood Donation Experience
For blood donations, an entire unit (450mL) will be collected and will take approximately fifteen minutes to complete. These draws are done in a centralized location where an observation table with light snacks will be made available to ensure no adverse reactions to the collection. Donors' time commitment is recognized with a $50 gift card.
The blood that is collected will be used only for research purposes. There is no cost to participate.
When you schedule an appointment, you will be asked to review our informed consent form. We recommend that you download and read through this document prior to your appointment so that you are familiar with the process. The document will be reviewed with you one-on-one so to address any questions before collection begins.
Donor participation is held strictly confidential and voluntary. A code is used to de-identify stored samples and data. Because donor participation is entirely voluntary, consent can be withdrawn at any time. For more information, please refer to our Withdrawal of Consent Form.
Prescreening for Blood Donation
Before donating whole blood, all donors complete a quick prescreening process to ensure safety for both the donor and the research use of the sample. This includes reviewing your health history, recent medications, and lifestyle factors, followed by a simple check of your temperature, blood pressure, and hemoglobin level. The prescreen takes just a few minutes and helps confirm that you’re eligible to donate safely that day.
How to Be Well Prepared to Donate Blood
Donating a pint of blood is simple and safe, but being prepared helps make the process even smoother. Be sure to eat a balanced meal and drink plenty of water before your donation — hydration is key! Get a good night’s sleep, avoid alcohol, excessive caffeine, or heavy exercise beforehand. Wear clothing with sleeves that can be easily rolled up, and plan to relax for a few minutes afterward with a snack and drink. Taking these simple steps helps ensure a positive experience and an easy recovery.
Donation Time Deferral Guide
Whole Blood: 56 days (8 weeks) between donations
Power Red: 112 days (16 weeks) between donations
Platelets: 7 days (1 week) between donations
Plasma: 28 days (4 weeks) between donations