Apheresis and Marrow Collection Program at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital | 20007 | MedStar Health

MedStar Health Apheresis and Marrow Collection Program at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital

Front of the MedStar Georgetown Hospital building with cherry blossoms in the foreground
3800 Reservoir Rd., NW
Verstandig Pavilion Building
Ground Floor
Washington, DC 20007

The Apheresis and Marrow Collection Center (AMCC) at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital is a large procurement program of bone marrow and peripheral stem cells with the mission of helping patients with life threatening conditions in need of a stem cell transplant. MedStar Georgetown established the AMCC to serve the unique needs of stem cell donors, to create innovative solutions in providing timely access to collection services, and to satisfy the growing demands of patients in need of a stem cell transplant.

Bone marrow and peripheral stem cells are collected from patients, their relatives, or from volunteer donors. The Apheresis and Marrow Collection Center has a specialized medical and administrative team trained to respond to the needs of patients, donors, and transplant/donor coordinating centers. We streamline all services for donors, managing multiple collections simultaneously with a high degree of availability for additional collections, including emergency collection cases. The health and safety of the patient and donor are primary considerations, as well as obtaining a quality stem cell product to ensure stem cell transplant success.

Our research engine, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, the only NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center in the Washington, D.C., region, provides access to clinical trials as well as break through cancer therapies and treatments.

Frequently asked questions

  • Where can I get stem cell and cellular immunotherapy?

    Our stem cell transplant and cellular immunotherapy specialists see patients at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, located on the second floor of our East Main Building at:

    3800 Reservoir Rd., NW
    Washington, DC 20007

    If you are wondering about your eligibility or your doctor recommended a stem cell transplant or cellular therapy, we’re here for you. Call us today at 202-993-0492.

  • How long does stem cell treatment take?

    The length of time from your initial visit to treatment will vary based on several factors, including whether you are undergoing an allogeneic or autologous stem cell transplant or cellular therapy. In addition, there are several steps necessary to appropriately prepare you for treatment, and this can take anywhere from several weeks to several months.

    Our team will collaborate with your primary oncologist or referring provider to determine the best time to move forward with treatment based on the specifics of your condition. Throughout the process, you can expect to:

    • Complete work-up testing to ensure your bodily systems are healthy enough for treatment
    • Receive guidance for establishing the right supports at home for recovery after a transplant
    • Undergo cell collection
    • Begin a donor search (for an allogeneic transplant only)
    • Meet with your transplant specialist at least three times before hospital admission

  • Can you walk after stem cell therapy?

    Yes, after stem cell therapy, you will be able to complete all activities of daily living independently, such as walking, showering, and going to the bathroom by yourself. However, we do require candidates to have adequate support at home, because you will feel tired and may need help with tasks like grocery shopping, cleaning, and cooking.

Courier instructions

  • To Our Volunteer Couriers:

    Thank you for the essential part you play in saving lives. We welcome you to the Apheresis and Marrow Collection Center.

    On the day of your scheduled pickup:

    • Enter the hospital through Entrance 1 of the Verstandig Pavillion building off of Reservoir Road. 
    • Your rideshare can drop you off at the half loop next to the emergency room under the overhang, or if you drive yourself, please park in the Visitor Parking garage (valet or self park available).
    • Unless we have spoken with you prior to your arrival and have told you the product you are picking up is ready, you shouldn’t ask the rideshare driver dropping you off to wait for your departure.
    • Upon entering the Verstandig Pavillion, proceed to go directly to the right.
    • AMCC lobby is to the right of the information/check in desk.

    Contact a team member at 202-444-9990 upon arrival to our offices, or if you are having any difficulty in finding us. Please wait in the designated area in the AMCC lobby, and follow infection prevention measures (remain masked and practice social distancing). Please note, that if wearing a face covering with ventilation "valves," a second covering will be provided and must be used over it, or a different covering may be used.

    For pick up time updates, please give our office a call anytime after 11 am. If we cannot provide an update, we appreciate your understanding and will ask you to call back when we expect to have new information. Please have the GRID of your scheduled pickup ready when you call, as we process several collections a day, and want to ensure we are giving you correct information concerning your collection.

Insurance

MedStar Health participates with most major health insurance plans. Please contact your insurance company to make sure your plan is covered.