The significance of finding a reliable private cord blood bank can never be stressed enough, as it is extremely essential to store your baby’s cord blood at the right temperature for a long time. This can be achieved only when the cord blood bank has high standards for shipping, handling, and storing the cord blood cells. Otherwise, it might be rendered useless in the future. As it is a medical service, several aspects must be considered while you search for a reliable private cord blood bank. While the baseline relies on the rule that all cord blood banks must be FDA approved, they do vary on several other aspects.
Searching for a Good Cord Blood Bank-Few Tips
To ensure that your baby’s cord blood is stored properly so that it can be used confidently in the future, you need to start your search for a good cord blood bank early, preferably during the second trimester.
Type of services provided
Before you zero in on any cord blood bank provider, review all the available services and their business hours. Remember- a blood bank needs to function 24/7 as births can happen anytime of the day or night. Therefore, you need a blood bank that works after hours with reliable and knowledgeable staff that is available round the clock for safe handling of cord blood. It is also essential to choose a service provider with financial stability and a proven record of accomplishment. You need to check the functions of the blood bank that include their mail services, shipping practices, and safety precautions.
Rates
The processing and storage rates of cord blood banks are another important aspect that you must look into before choosing one. The rates of these blood banks may vary from one to another as they have different methods to save and store your baby’s cord blood. Nevertheless, it must be affordable and reliable. Search for blood banks that are transparent about the costs and services, so there are no hidden charges. Check reviews and online websites and compare the services and prices before you choose a specific cord blood bank.
Certifications
It is also important to ensure that the bank you choose has a certified laboratory. All blood banks are inspected and regulated by the FDA and it must comply with these regulations. Therefore, ascertain that the banks are FDA and AABB certified before you choose to bank your baby’s cord blood with them. The laboratories must follow all the necessary rules and guidelines to ensure the safe processing and storage of your baby’s valuable cord blood.
It is essential to register with a cord blood bank at least four weeks before your due date. This will ensure a hassle-free procedure without any kind of anxiety, in case the baby arrives early.