Business Details
About
Blood BankNon-Profit OrganizationVersiti Blood Centers
We are stronger together! Established in 1943, Versiti Blood Center of Illinois (formerly Heartland Blood Centers) combines the strength of blood centers in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio with state-of-the-art diagnostic laboratories, physician services, and a world-renowned Blood Research Institute. Your blood will always stay local first, but now we will have even more access to rare and unique blood types to help meet the needs of Illinois hospital patients in need. Together, with you, we promise to continue our mission: we are a beacon of hope.
Details
- Wheelchair accessible entranceAvailable
Location
Hours
Reviews
4.4
26 reviews
5 stars
22
4 stars0
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1 star
4
- JPJacob ParksMay 8, 20255.0The staff are very nice and attentive. They made sure I was comfortable throughout the process each time and were incredibly patient with me.
- LMLinda MaffieOct 10, 20211.0Never had such a difficult experience donating... seem to not be good at what they do. Couldn't get the blood out of me had to throw away what they did and I couldn't donate again for several months when there is such a dire need for blood. I will be going elsewhere to donate no. I tried to get an appointment during the pandemic and they made it so very difficult to do so when I finally did get in to donate it was a fiasco. Didn't seem to know what they were doing and my vein was extremely bruised and sore for way over a week which is unacceptable
- JLJohn LarsonOct 19, 20205.0I been donating there for years. Even though I moved to Dixon in 2017 still make the 45 minute drive when I'm eligible to donate. Great and friendly crew that works there makes it worth the trip
- MMMae MaeDec 1, 20181.0Please stop calling. Once they have your phone number they will call you consistently even when you ask then to stop or ask to be taken off the call list. I don't mind donating. I do not need a blood bank calling twice a week
Frequently Asked Questions About Versiti Blood Center of Illinois
Do you pay donors?
The FDA does not allow us to pay our volunteer donors to help protect and keep the blood supply safe. However, we do sometimes give incentives to our donors as a thank you for your time and donation. At the end of the day, helping save the lives of local patients is the greatest gift anyone could receive!
Are donor center and blood drive staff required to wear a face mask?
Effective March 20, 2022, masks will not be required in our donor centers due to lower COVID cases in our communities and current CDC recommendations. Masks may be required at a community blood drive if located in a facility that requires them or per host request.
Can I donate blood if I've received the COVID-19 vaccination?
There is no wait period for receiving a COVID vaccination.
Is it safe to donate blood?
Yes, donating blood is completely safe. You cannot contract any diseases from donating blood. A sterile kit is used once to collect your blood and is then thrown away. Versiti is committed to the safety of our donors.
What happens to my blood after I donate?
After we collect your blood, it is sent to Versiti labs for testing. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that all donated blood undergo a series of lab tests before it is given to patients. We perform 15 separate tests on each unit of donated blood, which includes tests for sexually transmitted diseases, West Nile virus, hepatitis and other illnesses. If a unit of blood passes all these tests, it is safe for patients.
How long does it take to give blood?
The process for donating whole blood takes about an hour from the time you walk in the door to the time you leave. This includes registration, a brief medical screening, blood collection and refreshments. Collecting one unit of whole blood only takes about 10 minutes; however, you can expect to spend more time donating products like red cells, platelets and plasma (also known as apheresis procedures).
Does donating blood hurt?
Donating blood does not hurt, though you might feel a pinch when the needle first goes into your arm. In that moment, think about the patients you're helping who rely on the generosity of people like you to feel healthy. You may experience discomfort for a few seconds, but you'll have the lasting reward of knowing you saved a life.
Where is Versiti Blood Center of Illinois located?
Versiti Blood Center of Illinois is located at 2428 Sycamore Road, DeKalb, IL 60115, USA.
What are the operating hours of the Versiti Blood Center of Illinois?
The center is open Mondays 7:00 AM–2:00 PM, Tuesdays to Thursdays 11:30 AM–6:00 PM, Saturdays and Sundays 7:00 AM–2:30 PM, and is closed on Fridays.
Do I need to schedule an appointment to donate blood at Versiti Blood Center of Illinois?
Appointments can be scheduled online via their reservation URL, making it easy to plan your visit.
Is donating blood at Versiti Blood Center safe?
Yes, donating blood is completely safe using sterile, single-use kits, and the center prioritizes donor safety.
Are donors compensated at Versiti Blood Center of Illinois?
Donors are volunteers and not paid, in line with FDA regulations, but may receive incentives as a thank you for their donation.
What types of donation services does Versiti Blood Center offer?
They offer blood donation, plasma donation, platelet donation, and volunteer opportunities.
Are masks required at the donor center?
Masks are not required in donor centers since March 20, 2022, but may be required at community blood drives depending on the host's policies.
What can I do near the Versiti Blood Center while waiting or after donating?
Nearby places include Hobby Lobby for arts and crafts, Buffalo Wild Wings for a casual meal, and Candy Cloud - DeKalb for coffee and smoothies.
Are there convenient services nearby the blood center for errands or shopping?
Yes, nearby you can find America’s Best Contacts & Eyeglasses for eyewear needs, PetSmart for pet care, and Ollie’s Bargain Outlet for discount shopping.
How can nearby transportation or travel services support my visit to the blood center?
Nearby travel agents like Compass travel and Carder Travel Ltd can assist with travel planning if you are visiting from out of town, making your appointment easier to coordinate.