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Possible Match

Once your blood sample has been tissue typed, you will be added onto the Bone Marrow Donor Programme (BMDP) register. This means your details are included in our search for that life-saving matched donor and we will contact you if you are identified as a possible match for a patient.

 

At this point in the bone marrow donation process:

• The patient's doctor requests additional testing to determine if you are the best donor for the patient. You will be asked to provide a blood sample for testing.
• We will ensure you are still interested in participating and we will provide information and answers to any questions that you may have.
• We will also ask questions about your health history to be sure it is safe for you to donate bone marrow or blood cells. For more information, see Medical Guidelines.

 

Additional testing — What to expect

Participating in additional testing is critical for the doctors to make sure that you are the best possible match for their patients. This is all carried out at NO COST to you — the BMDP or the patient’s insurance will cover any medical expenses.

It can take one week to 60 days for the patient’s doctor to get the testing results and to select a donor. The patient’s condition also affects the process timing and we will keep you updated on the doctor’s decision. If you are the most suitable donor, you may be asked to donate right away or wait until the patient is ready. Doctors base the timing on what is best for the patient, and for you.