Why give blood platelets at Oneblood.org?
Because it is what my mom taught me and I honor her memory.
More practically, is that they do a "mini physical" each time you go. For me, is once every week or two. You can give up to 24 times per year.
Part of that mini physical is a cholesterol test.
Now, what is that worth?
According to: http://health.costhelper.com/cholesterol-test.html
"Typical costs:
Cholesterol testing is frequently done as part of an annual physical, which might be covered by medical insurance. If an insured patient receives a cholesterol test as part of a physical, there is typically a charge for an office visit copay.
Walk-in clinics provide cholesterol testing for $50-$100 per visit. The cost usually includes the cost of lab testing and the cost of an office visit. For example, Minute Clinic[1] , the medical clinic located inside many CVS Pharmacy locations, offers cholesterol testing for $59 plus a $30 lab fee.
Local pharmacies often provide cholesterol testing on-site. The test typically costs $5-$25. For example, Bartell Drugs[2] , a pharmacy with locations across Western Washington, offers a total cholesterol test for $5 and a complete lipid panel for $15. Publix, with locations in South Carolina, Tennessee and Florida, offers cholesterol testing for $15-$20.
There are two basic types of home cholesterol tests -- the kind done completely in the privacy of one's home and the kind that requires shipment to a laboratory to complete. At-home tests cost $15-$25; kits requiring shipment cost $25-$50.
Portable digital meters check a patient's cardiovascular health. The meters often check for cholesterol level using test strips and typically sell for $75-$200. For example, CardioChek meters[3] typically sell for $90-$110 and provide cholesterol checks in less than two minutes."
Since strokes and heart attacks run in my family, this is a great tool for keeping up with my health.
So I get 24 tests saving between $360 and $2400 .... nice!
Appreciate you thoughts,
Tom