Business Details
About
Blood BankDiagnostic LabNon-Profit OrganizationVersiti Blood Centers
We are stronger together! Based in Milwaukee, Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin (formerly BloodCenter of Wisconsin) combines the strength of blood centers in Wisconsin, Indiana, Illinois, 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 Wisconsin hospital patients in need. Together, with you, we promise to continue our mission: we are a beacon of hope.
The visitor parking lot is enclosed by a gate. To access the lot, pull your vehicle up to the gate, press the intercom button, and alert our security team to your arrival.
Details
- Wheelchair accessible entranceAvailable
Location
Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin
638 N 18th Street, Milwaukee, WI
53233, United States
Hours
Reviews
4.1
49 reviews
5 stars
32
4 stars
6
3 stars
2
2 stars
1
1 star
8
- JCjhonatan camachoAug 21, 20252.0Puedo donar sangre sin hablar inglés ?
- FJFILUT JEFFREYFeb 5, 20255.0I had a young man at the blood drive on 2/4/25 I was at the Oconomowoc community center with a 2 pm dual red donation. I’ve been donating for many years I have a many good experiences but not like this visit he was a ten on every level of customer service.
- JDJayne DunnumMay 11, 20235.0Today was my first time donating blood in a very long time. I want to compliment the Versiti staff that took care of me at the Bay View community Center site. All was well until I got up too fast. The staff calmly rushed into action - Catching me before I hit the ground. They were very professional and kind. I wish that I could remember their names to give them personal kudos. I will be back again. Next time, I'll just move slower.
- JJJreggudDec 5, 20191.0I understand you need donations but the harassment of someone who volunteers to donate their blood is a joke. I donate as often as I can, when I can. Your phone calls after hours is a joke. I have a family with young kids. Calling after 8pm is nonsense. Congratulations on losing a donor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin
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 the Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin located?
It is located at 638 N 18th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA.
What are the operating hours of the Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin?
The center is open Monday to Wednesday from 11:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Thursday and Friday from 6:00 AM to 1:30 PM, and Saturday from 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM. It is closed on Sundays.
Do donors get paid for donating blood at Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin?
No, donors are not paid as the FDA prohibits payment to ensure the safety of the blood supply. However, donors may receive incentives as a thank you for their time and donation.
Is it safe to donate blood at this center?
Yes, donating blood is completely safe. Sterile kits are used once and discarded. Versiti is committed to the safety of its donors.
Can I donate blood if I have received the COVID-19 vaccine?
Yes, there is no waiting period after receiving the COVID-19 vaccination before donating blood.
How long does the blood donation process take at Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin?
Donating whole blood takes about an hour including registration, screening, blood collection, and refreshments. Apheresis procedures like platelet or plasma donations may take longer.
Does donating blood hurt at Versiti Blood Center?
Donating blood may cause a pinch when the needle is inserted, but any discomfort lasts only a few seconds and is outweighed by the life-saving impact of your donation.
Is there accessible parking at the Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin?
Yes, the visitor parking lot is enclosed by a gate. To access the lot, pull up to the gate, press the intercom button, and alert security to your arrival. The center also has a wheelchair accessible entrance.
Are there convenient places to eat near the Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin?
Yes, nearby eateries include Jamba (smoothie and health food bar), Maki Yaki Japanese Grill, Cousins Subs sandwich shop, Auntie Anne's bakery, Starbucks coffee shop, BeBe's Bistro, and Pita Brothers Mediterranean restaurant – ideal for a meal or snack before or after your donation.
What nearby transport options help customers get to the Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin?
The Greyhound Bus Lines station is nearby, making it convenient for visitors using bus transportation to reach the center.
Are there any educational institutions near the Versiti Blood Center that visitors might be interested in?
Yes, the center is close to Marquette University including its College of Engineering, School of Dentistry, and various campus buildings such as Engineering Hall and McCabe Hall, which might be of interest to visitors or donors connected to these institutions.